Israeli Supreme Court rules ultra-Orthodox men must serve in the military.

June 25, 2024, 2:30 p.m. Politics

The Israeli Supreme Court's recent ruling on ultra-Orthodox men serving in the military has sparked a heated debate within the country. The decision, which mandates that ultra-Orthodox individuals must serve in the military like the rest of the population, has been met with both support and opposition from various sectors of Israeli society.

The issue of military service for ultra-Orthodox men has been a controversial and longstanding one in Israel. The ultra-Orthodox, also known as Haredim, have historically been exempt from military service due to their religious beliefs and dedication to studying Torah. This exemption has led to resentment and frustration among many other Israelis who see military service as a duty that all citizens should share.

The Supreme Court's ruling comes as a response to a petition filed by the The Movement for Quality Government in Israel, an advocacy group that argued that the unequal distribution of military service obligations undermines the principle of equality in Israel. The court agreed with the petitioners and ruled that the current system, which allows ultra-Orthodox men to avoid military service while most other Israeli men and women are required to serve, is unjust and discriminatory.

The decision has been praised by those who see it as a step towards creating a more equitable society in Israel. Supporters of the ruling argue that all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, should be required to contribute to the defense of the state. They believe that military service is a unifying force that can help bridge the divide between different segments of Israeli society.

However, there are also voices of dissent who oppose the ruling and raise concerns about its potential impact on the ultra-Orthodox community. Many ultra-Orthodox individuals see military service as incompatible with their religious beliefs and fear that it will disrupt their way of life. They argue that they already contribute to society in other ways, such as through their dedication to religious study and communal service.

Some critics of the ruling also point out that forcing ultra-Orthodox men into the military could lead to tensions and conflicts within the armed forces. They argue that integrating individuals who have not been prepared for military service could undermine the effectiveness and cohesion of the military.

The Israeli government has been grappling with the issue of ultra-Orthodox military service for years, with successive administrations attempting to find a balance between the demands of different sectors of Israeli society. The Supreme Court's ruling has now put the ball in the government's court, challenging it to come up with a new policy that complies with the court's decision.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has expressed his support for the ruling, stating that it is an important step towards creating a more just and inclusive society. However, he also acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead in implementing the court's decision and ensuring that it is done in a way that respects the rights and beliefs of all citizens.

In conclusion, the Israeli Supreme Court's ruling on ultra-Orthodox military service has sparked a contentious debate within the country. While some see it as a necessary step towards equality and unity, others raise concerns about its potential impact on the ultra-Orthodox community and the military. As Israel navigates this complex issue, it will be crucial for the government to find a balanced and inclusive solution that respects the rights and beliefs of all its citizens.