Ultra-Orthodox Conscription Bill Poses Challenge to Israeli Government

An impending crisis over conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews into the Israeli army threatens to destabilize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Public sentiment has shifted dramatically following two years of war, with a draft bill under consideration to end long-standing exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men in religious study. Despite 24,000 draft notices issued last year, only about 1,200 reported for duty, leading to significant protests and tensions within the community. As the ultra-Orthodox population grows, support for their conscription is rising, with many Israelis advocating for sanctions against draft evaders.

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