An impending crisis over conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews into the Israeli army is threatening to undermine Israel's government and split the country.
Public opinion on the issue has shifted dramatically in Israel after two years of war, and this is now perhaps the most explosive political risk facing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Lawmakers are currently considering a draft bill to end the exemption granted to ultra-Orthodox men enrolled in full-time religious study, established when the State of Israel was declared in 1948.
The exemption was ruled illegal by Israel's High Court of Justice almost 20 years ago. Temporary arrangements to maintain it were ended by the court last year, forcing the government to draft the community.
While 24,000 draft notices were issued last year, only about 1,200 ultra-Orthodox draftees reported for duty, creating tension within the military and society.
Protests erupted in response to the draft proposal, with many Haredim perceiving the military service requirement as a threat to their religious way of life. Additionally, actions by the police to arrest draft evaders have escalated tensions, leading to increased mobilization among ultra-Orthodox communities.
As debates continue in the Knesset, both supporters and opponents of the draft bill are vocalizing their concerns, illustrating the cultural and religious fractures in Israeli society.
Many contend that the military service obligation should be equally applicable to all Israeli citizens, while others argue for the preservation of religious exemptions. The situation remains dynamic, with Netanyahu's coalition risking collapse if the bill does not align with the interests of ultra-Orthodox political factions.
