Israel's Supreme Court Mandates Draft for Ultra-Orthodox Men

Israel's Supreme Court has ruled that ultra-Orthodox men must be drafted for military service like any other citizen. This decision could destabilize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition as Israel's conflict in Gaza continues.

In a landmark decision on Tuesday, Israel's Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the military must begin drafting ultra-Orthodox men, a move that could destabilize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition as Israel continues its conflict in Gaza. The court stated that the law does not distinguish between Jewish seminary students and other draftees, making the draft compulsory for ultra-Orthodox men as well. Historically, ultra-Orthodox men have been exempt from the draft, which is obligatory for most Jewish men and women. This exemption has been a point of contention among the secular public, particularly as the conflict drags into its eighth month.