In a significant policy shift, the Israeli military has announced plans to forcibly draft 54,000 ultra-Orthodox seminary students as part of a broader effort to address personnel shortages amid escalating conflicts. The move follows a Supreme Court ruling that nullified the religious group’s long-standing exemption from military service, which has been in place for decades. Military service is mandatory for most citizens in Israel, with men and women required to serve for 24 to 32 months, typically beginning at age 18. However, the ultra-Orthodox community, which represents a significant portion of the population, has historically been exempt from this obligation.
The conscription notices are set to be distributed in July, with enlistments spread over the following year. The IDF has also announced increased enforcement measures to ensure compliance, including the use of border police for checkpoints and arrests. The decision comes amid heightened military demands due to ongoing conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, and other regional groups, as well as tensions with Iran. Reservists have reportedly expressed fatigue from extended deployments, adding pressure on the government to expand the draft pool. Last June, the Supreme Court mandated the inclusion of seminary students in the draft, prompting widespread protests in Jerusalem. Ultra-Orthodox parties within Netanyahu’s coalition have threatened to withdraw support unless exemptions are reinstated, potentially destabilizing the government’s narrow majority.
The military has pledged to accommodate religious practices and develop programs to foster inclusion amid these changes. Leaders of the ultra-Orthodox community argue that military integration threatens their religious lifestyle, particularly due to gender integration in the armed forces. They have expressed concerns that participation in the IDF could conflict with their religious commitments and traditions. In response, the military has stated it is committed to creating programs that respect the community’s way of life while ensuring national security needs are met. This development has sparked a broader debate about the balance between religious traditions and national obligations in Israel.
As the enforcement of these conscription orders progresses, the impact on Israel’s political landscape remains uncertain. The potential for early elections looms should the ultra-Orthodox parties withdraw their support, which could significantly alter the dynamics of Israeli politics. Meanwhile, the military’s efforts to strengthen its ranks reflect the ongoing challenges of maintaining national security in a region marked by persistent conflicts and external pressures. This decision underscores the complex interplay between national defense, religious identity, and political strategy in contemporary Israel.