Thousands of ultra-Orthodox men gathered in downtown Jerusalem on Thursday to protest military draft plans, further deepening Israel’s social divisions and adding pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government.
The protest, which drew tens of thousands of demonstrators, underscored growing tensions within Israeli society over the issue of mandatory military service. Ultra-Orthodox leaders have long argued that drafting men from their community for combat roles violates their religious beliefs and that their primary duty is to study Torah and engage in spiritual pursuits. This stance has led to prolonged negotiations and political maneuvering, with the government seeking to balance national security needs with religious sensitivities.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose coalition government relies on the support of various religious and secular factions, faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of the ultra-Orthodox community. The protests come amid ongoing debates about the role of religious minorities in the military and the broader implications for Israel’s social cohesion. Analysts suggest that the growing divide could threaten the stability of the government and intensify political tensions in the coming months.
The demonstrations, which were peaceful by nature, were accompanied by speeches and calls for compromise from both sides. However, the deepening rift highlights the challenges of maintaining unity in a diverse society. As the issue continues to dominate public discourse, the government is expected to respond with further dialogue or potential policy adjustments, depending on the political climate and public sentiment.