Israel’s Supreme Court Rules End to Subsidies for Ultra-Orthodox Men Refusing Military Service
Israel’s Supreme Court recently made a landmark ruling ordering the government to stop providing subsidies to ultra-Orthodox men who do not serve in the army. This decision could have significant implications for both the government and religious men who opt out of military service.
The ruling has created a major rift within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s national unity government, with ultra-Orthodox parties demanding draft exemptions to continue while other members insist on equal participation in military service. If the ultra-Orthodox parties withdraw from the coalition, it could lead to new elections, with Netanyahu currently facing a challenging political landscape.
The Supreme Court deemed the current system discriminatory and set a deadline for the government to come up with a new plan by Monday, with a requirement to implement it by June 30. Approximately one-third of the 180,000 seminary students receiving government subsidies for full-time learning will be affected by this ruling.
Netanyahu has requested a 30-day extension to find a compromise, highlighting the complexities of the issue. Mandatory military service is a cornerstone of Israeli society, viewed as a crucial aspect of national defense. However, ultra-Orthodox leaders argue that their unique way of life also contributes to the country’s protection.
Critics of the court’s decision accuse it of bullying religious students, while Netanyahu warns of potential negative consequences if an agreement is not reached soon. The government is under pressure to find a resolution that satisfies all parties involved in this contentious issue.
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