The Israeli Supreme Court has recently made a groundbreaking decision to freeze funding for ultra-Orthodox yeshivas unless their students enlist in the military. This ruling has the potential to significantly impact Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government and has sparked a heated debate within Israeli society.
The exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service has long been a controversial issue in Israel, with a majority of Israelis viewing it as unfair. Prime Minister Netanyahu now has until Monday to present a new national conscription plan in response to the court’s decision.
The ruling has divided Netanyahu’s government, with some members supporting the court’s decision while others vehemently oppose it. Ultra-Orthodox parties in the coalition have been quick to criticize the court’s ruling, further adding to the tension.
Centrists in the government have backed the court’s decision, arguing that more troops are needed particularly during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The war has sadly resulted in the deaths of over 500 soldiers and has seen many Israelis being called up for reserve duty, emphasizing the pressing need for a reevaluation of the conscription policy.
If ultra-Orthodox members of the coalition decide to leave over this issue, it could potentially trigger a new election, further complicating an already tense political climate. For decades, ultra-Orthodox Jews have been allowed to study Torah full time instead of serving in the military, leading to growing resentment among the public.
As Israel continues to grapple with the implications of the court’s ruling, it is clear that this issue will have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political landscape and society as a whole.
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