Israel’s Supreme Court has made a landmark ruling that the military must now draft ultra-Orthodox Jewish men, a decision that could potentially cause a rift in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The unanimous decision by a panel of nine judges stated that there was no legal justification for the exemption previously granted to ultra-Orthodox religious students from military service. This ruling means that the mandatory draft laws in Israel must now apply to all men of draft age, including the ultra-Orthodox minority.
In a country where military service is compulsory for most Jewish Israelis, the exemption for the ultra-Orthodox has been a source of resentment for many. The ongoing war in Gaza has further exacerbated tensions, with the burden of inequality becoming more pronounced. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for a sustainable solution to address this issue.
The decision has highlighted the deep divisions within Israeli society, particularly between secular Jews and the ultra-Orthodox community. The coalition government, which relies on the support of ultra-Orthodox parties, is now facing a challenge as it navigates the implications of this ruling. Previous court decisions have also ruled against the exemption, urging the government to address the issue through legislation.
The expiration of the previous law in 2023 prompted the government to delay drafting new legislation, leading to the current situation. The court’s ruling has now invalidated this delay, signaling the need for immediate action. While no specific timeline has been set for the implementation of the draft, it is expected to be a complex and contentious process. The attorney general has confirmed the military’s commitment to begin drafting religious students, marking a significant shift in Israeli policy.
Source: www.nytimes.com