A legal dispute has arisen over exemptions from compulsory military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel, prompting the right-wing coalition government to seek a compromise.
The Attorney General’s declaration that there is no legal basis for these exemptions has caused concern within the government, especially as the deadline for a resolution approaches amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is facing challenges in reaching an agreement, as his ultra-Orthodox allies strongly oppose conscription for their community.
The coalition, reliant on ultra-Orthodox parties, is under pressure to find a solution before the Supreme Court’s deadline.
Despite previous support from religious parties for Netanyahu’s policies, including controversial judicial reforms, Defense Minister Gallant’s announcement of military service reform has complicated matters.
The current exemptions, dating back to Israel’s founding, were intended to allow religious students to preserve Jewish traditions, but with the ultra-Orthodox population growing, there are calls for reform.
