Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men filled the streets of Jerusalem on Thursday, protesting against Israel’s mandatory military draft. Dressed in black suits and hats, they demanded a law that would protect their long-standing exemption from army service — a promise Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has yet to deliver.
Protesters burned tarpaulin sheets and carried signs rejecting conscription, while police blocked roads and deployed about 2,000 officers to control the massive crowd. Many demonstrators travelled from across Israel after ultra-Orthodox parties called for nationwide participation.
The tension follows a government crackdown on draft evasion, with thousands receiving call-up notices in recent months. The Supreme Court ruled in June 2024 that ultra-Orthodox exemptions had expired, ordering the state to begin drafting them.
This ruling has put Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition under immense strain. The Shas and United Torah Judaism parties — key allies — have threatened to withdraw support unless exemptions are guaranteed by law. Losing their backing could topple Netanyahu’s fragile government.
Some rabbis fear military service could weaken religious commitment, while others agree that men not studying full-time should serve. Despite slow change, more ultra-Orthodox youths have started enlisting, though the numbers remain low.
