The ultimate Court of Israel issued a unanimous ruling that alters the current position quo on the issue of the military service of ultraorthodox Jews. The judges considered that there was no legal basis for excluding ultraorthodox from military service. This decision, which was a landmark minute in Israeli legislation, was met with strong opposition from the charedi community.
Supreme Court ruling
The ultimate Court ruling states that exemptions from military service for ultraorthodox who devote themselves to studying in yeshiva are incompatible with the rule of citizens' equality with the law. The judges stressed that "all social groups should share work for state defence". This decision obliges Israel's Defence Forces (IDF) to start recruiting men studying in the yeshivaks.
Starting Recruitment
The IDF began the recruitment process, sending at the end of July the first 1000 notices of conscription to troops aimed at ultraorthodox men aged 18 to 26. This decision sparked a wave of protests in the charedim community, which has so far been exempted from military service under peculiar agreements.
Protests and clashes with police
On Monday, hundreds of ultraorthodox Jews gathered at Tel Hashomer base, the main recruiting center of the Israeli army to protest against forced conscription. These protests turned into clashes with the police, indicating the deep social tensions caused by this decision.
Follow-up
Despite the protests, IDF plans to proceed implementing the ultimate Court ruling. On Tuesday, the army is going to send another 3,000 notices of draft. The IDF spokesperson stressed that "arms are obliged to comply with the law and guarantee that all citizens, without exception, fulfil their obligations towards the State".
Consequences of decisions
The ultimate Court ruling and its implementation may have far-reaching consequences for Israeli society. This decision may lead to greater integration of ultraorthodox into the country's public and defence life, but besides to further tensions and social divisions. The charedim community, which has so far been protected from military duty, may feel that its conventional lifestyle and values are at risk.
Summary
The ruling of the ultimate Court of Israel, ordering ultraorthodox Jews to be commissioned into the army, is simply a crucial step towards equality and social justice. However, the implementation of this ruling has faced strong opposition and has sparked protests, indicating deep divisions in Israeli society. What the long-term effects of this decision will show. 1 thing is certain – Israel faces the challenge of balancing national safety requirements with respect for the cultural and spiritual diversity of its citizens.
Daniel Głogowski
Expert in his field – Publicist, author and social activist. The first articles were published in 1999 for global publishers. For more than 30 years, he has gained his experience through cooperation with the largest editorial offices. In his articles, he seeks to address controversial topics and present first viewpoints that allowed for a deeper knowing of the issues discussed.
Read more:
Danten scenes in Israel. Ultraorthodox in Israel by decision of the court under military service
