The Israeli Supreme Court’s Ruling on Ultra-Orthodox Military Exemption

The Israeli Supreme Court’s recent ruling on Tuesday marked the end of a long-standing exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews from serving in the country’s military. This decision could potentially bring about a significant shift in Israel’s trajectory, impacting various aspects of society, politics, and security.

The ruling is expected to add strain to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fragile governing coalition, which relies on the support of two ultra-Orthodox parties advocating for the exemption. This development comes at a critical time as Israel is currently engaged in conflict in Gaza.

The issue of ultra-Orthodox military exemption has been a divisive topic in Israel, where the majority of Jewish 18-year-olds, regardless of gender, are required to serve in the military. Many Israelis have long expressed discontent over the lack of equality in this regard.

The recent conflicts in Gaza and other potential security threats have highlighted the military’s need for additional personnel, further fueling the debate on this issue.

Who are the Haredim?

Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community, referred to as Haredim (those who fear God) in Hebrew, generally do not fully recognize the authority of the state. They reject the idea of secular Jewish sovereignty and serving in the military.

For many Haredim, the pursuit of full-time Torah study is considered a paramount value. They argue that dedicating themselves to scholarly pursuits has been instrumental in preserving the Jewish people’s heritage and identity over centuries.