Israel is currently facing internal division over the issue of exemptions from mandatory military service for ultra-Orthodox men, amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The government has been given a deadline to present legislation by the end of the month that would increase recruitment among the religious community. However, as the deadline approaches, public discourse is becoming more toxic, creating instability within the government coalition.
Traditionally, the ultra-Orthodox community has been exempt from military service, which has sparked anger among the wider general public and led to protests. The Supreme Court recently ruled that the current system is discriminatory and gave the government a deadline to present a new bill.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is facing opposition from members of the War Cabinet over the proposed conscription law. Defence Minister Gallant and opposition leader Benny Gantz have even threatened to leave the Cabinet if the law is weakened. Tensions are rising as reservists face increased duty and there is talk of lengthening mandatory service.
The ultra-Orthodox community argues that integrating into the army would threaten their way of life. However, economists warn that the current system is unsustainable and call for an equal burden of service among all sectors of the population. The army is attempting to accommodate the ultra-Orthodox with separate units for religious practices.
Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef has even stated that the ultra-Orthodox community would move abroad if forced to enlist, causing controversy and ridicule. The unwillingness of the ultra-Orthodox leadership to compromise is alienating more of the public, potentially leading to a change in future elections. The situation continues to evolve as the deadline for the new legislation approaches, with the future of military service exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox hanging in the balance.
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