The issue of haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews) in Israel not serving in the IDF has been a contentious topic for decades.
In the current status quo established in the early days of the State of Israel, haredi yeshiva students have an exemption from serving in the IDF or partaking in Sherut Leumi (national service). However, this has caused many others in Israel to feel there is an unfair distribution of the burden of serving the country. Coupled with the low employment rates for haredim in Israel, and this has led to widespread tension against ultra-Orthodox Israelis.
The courts have ruled that the current exemption for haredim not to serve in the army is illegal and efforts to resolve the issue are still ongoing.
How in the world can self-identifying Zionist Knesset members in the coalition participate in this injustice?
The Knesset will debate the state budget overnight as haredi draft demands add tension; final votes are set for Tuesday after months of political maneuvering.
By Sunday evening, an understanding was reached: the ultra-Orthodox factions would not issue an ultimatum over the draft law at this time.
"According to the data presented by the military, in the absence of effective enforcement measures, the enlistment rate among this group is negligible,” Limon wrote
Few things are more provocative for non-haredim than haredi rabbis and students gleefully rejecting the government and refusing to defend the state – all while taking its money.
NATIONAL AFFAIRS: Viral videos of haredi anti-draft chants have reignited Israel’s conscription debate, sparking public outrage and political backlash.
This might have been possible to tolerate before October 7 but definitely not now, at a time when the IDF is missing over 10,000 soldiers to fulfill the missions it already has.
Latest polling shows Likud’s rise, Bennett’s strong support, and deep divisions on war policy and the haredi draft law.
The IDF said it expects to miss its 2025 goal of 4,800 recruits by 1,800.
According to the data, the IDF has sent out 2,231 “Tzav 12” orders, which are a final summons to people who did not adhere to the initial order, before an arrest warrant is issued.
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