Ultra-Orthodox Israelis Resist Call to Fight Amid Rising Tensions
Ultra-Orthodox Israelis, who have long been exempt from military service, are now facing conscription, spurring protests and deepening divisions within Israel. The move is threatening Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition as tensions continue to rise. The decision to draft the Ultra-Orthodox community marks a significant shift in Israel’s military policy and has sparked intense debate across the political spectrum.
The protests against conscription have been particularly fierce in Kfar Yona, where Israeli security forces recently carried an ultra-Orthodox Jewish man during a demonstration. This incident has highlighted the growing unrest and resistance to the new military requirements among the Ultra-Orthodox population.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has relied heavily on the support of the Ultra-Orthodox community within his coalition, faces increasing pressure to address the concerns of this group. The potential collapse of his coalition could have significant implications for Israel’s political and military stability. As the government moves forward with its plans to integrate the Ultra-Orthodox into the armed forces, the situation remains highly volatile and fraught with challenges.