Tensions Rise as Israel Drafts Ultra-Orthodox Jews

With the Israeli Supreme Court overturning military exemptions, the ultra-Orthodox community confronts a complex dilemma as only a small fraction of newly drafted Haredim step up to serve, leading to increasing societal tension.

Israel's ultra-Orthodox Jews, once exempt from military duty, are now facing the draft as societal pressures escalate. Among those newly called to service is Yechiel Wais, who looks forward to integrating into Israeli society through his military experience. In stark contrast, Chaim Krausz rejects his draft orders, fearing enlistment would compromise his religious beliefs. Itamar Greenberg has chosen a different path, voluntarily surrendering to military prison, preferring incarceration over participation in combat.

A recent exploration of the challenges faced by three ultra-Orthodox men highlights the shifting dynamics in Israeli society. This change follows a historical agreement from 1948, when leaders of the newly-formed state granted military exemptions to the ultra-Orthodox, known as Haredim in Hebrew, in return for political backing. However, following the devastating Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, the situation has altered dramatically, resulting in a mobilization of Israeli citizens while ultra-Orthodox enlistment has not kept pace.

As the Haredi population has risen—making up 14 percent of the country today, up from just 5 percent in 1948—so has public ire regarding the perceived disparity in military service. Many secular Israelis express concerns that while their children are sent to war, the ultra-Orthodox receive government support to pursue religious studies.

Under pressure from escalating tensions, the Israeli Supreme Court ruled last summer that the ultra-Orthodox could no longer escape military service. Despite the issuance of draft orders to 10,000 Haredi men, only a mere 338 have reported for duty so far. As the Israeli government grapples with this divisive issue, they face a critical question: how to reconcile a growing segment of the population that largely avoids military service in the face of national obligations.