Ultra-Orthodox Israelis Protest Military Conscription in Jerusalem

Tensions Rise as Ultra-Orthodox Israelis Protest Conscription in Jerusalem

On Wednesday, a significant protest erupted outside a conscription center in Jerusalem, led by hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Israeli men. The demonstration, fueled by growing national tensions, resulted in clashes with police officers. This unrest follows a court ruling that mandates military service for members of the insular ultra-Orthodox community, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across the nation.

In recent weeks, the Israeli military has started issuing conscription orders to ultra-Orthodox men aged 18 to 26. This move comes after the Supreme Court’s ruling in June that called for an end to the longstanding exemptions that have allowed many in this community to avoid mandatory military service. In Israel, military service is compulsory for most citizens over the age of 18, although there are some exceptions, notably for the majority of Arab citizens. Prior to this ruling, more than 60,000 ultra-Orthodox religious students within the draft age were exempt from service.

During the protest, many demonstrators, appearing to be of draft age, engaged in scuffles with police officers and also confronted counterprotesters advocating for the military to enforce the draft. These counterprotesters argue that the unequal distribution of military service obligations is unjust, especially in light of the ongoing war and escalating regional tensions.

The Israeli police reported that they dispatched reinforcements to manage the situation and maintain public order. Various media outlets noted that officers had sealed off multiple streets, deployed water cannons to disperse crowds, and used batons against some protesters. Responding to inquiries about their tactics, the police stated that they were “forced to act using various means” as protests escalated and demonstrators breached a blockade. Reports indicated that some protesters hurled water bottles at the officers. Ultimately, five individuals were arrested during the unrest.

This protest underscores the growing friction between Israel’s mainstream secular society and the ultra-Orthodox community, which is the fastest-growing demographic in the nation. Many ultra-Orthodox Israelis hold beliefs that lead them to reject the legitimacy of the Israeli state, including its secular authority and the concept of military service. They argue that full-time Torah study is vital, asserting that this commitment to scholarship has been instrumental in ensuring the survival of the Jewish people throughout history.