Mass demonstrations are set to take place in Jerusalem on Thursday, organized under the ‘March of the Million’ initiative, as Israel’s Haredi religious students push back against proposed reforms that would end their long-standing exemption from military service. The protests, which have been planned for months, are expected to draw thousands of participants, with estimates suggesting that up to a million people may take part in the march. The initiative has gained significant public attention, with supporters and critics alike expressing strong opinions on its implications for Israeli society.
The proposed reforms come amid growing concerns over the country’s security and the role of religious institutions in shaping public policy. The current exemption allows Haredi men to pursue advanced religious studies instead of serving in the military, a policy that has been a contentious issue for years. Proponents of the reforms argue that ending the exemption would help address personnel shortages in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), while opponents warn that it could lead to increased tensions within the religious community and undermine the rights of religious minorities.
The protests are part of a broader societal debate over the balance between national security and personal freedom, with many Israelis divided on the issue. The government has faced increasing pressure to find a compromise that respects the religious community’s traditions while also addressing national defense needs. As the demonstrations unfold, the potential impact on Israel’s political landscape and social cohesion remains a key focus of public discourse.