Israel’s decision to recruit Haredi Jews after 75 years sparks debates

Thousands of Haredi Jews, who have been exempt from mandatory military service since 1949, are set to receive draft notices.

This initiative, part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government effort to integrate Ultra-Orthodox Jews into the Israeli military, has sparked intense debates and deep divisions within the country.

The move comes amid ongoing attacks on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, and the resulting casualties suffered by the Israeli army.

The longstanding exemption for Haredi Jews has faced significant criticism from Israel’s secular and nationalist communities.

Senior rabbis, whose rulings are considered religious edicts by the Haredi community, have called for the rejection of mandatory military service and even urged the tearing up of draft orders.

The Haredi community has specific demands for military service, including separation from women, provision of special kosher food and observance of the Sabbath.