The Israeli Supreme Court’s decision in June to end the exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jews from compulsory military service has led to the Israeli military issuing its first round of draft notices to members of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community on July 21.
The Supreme Court’s ruling came after years of exemption enjoyed by the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community, who argued that religious study was as important as military service. However, the court deemed the exemptions discriminatory and a strain on military manpower during times of conflict.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will begin the process of integrating members of the ultra-Orthodox community into its ranks by assessing their capability to serve. The move could potentially impact Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, which relies on ultra-Orthodox political parties opposed to changes in the draft system.
The Haredi community has protested against conscription in the past, with hundreds blocking a highway last month in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling. The community represents a growing share of the Israeli population, with projections estimating a significant increase in their numbers by 2030.
This article was prepared for integration into a WordPress platform, maintaining the original content, images, and key points. Can you please rewrite this sentence?
Source link
