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Ultra-Orthodox Jews Defy Israel’s Draft
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Ultra-Orthodox Jews Defy Israel’s Draft

Israel's Haredim and Military Service: A Divisive Debate

The Rise of the Haredi Community

  • Israel’s ultra-Orthodox Jews, known as the Haredim, are facing mandatory military service for the first time in decades, sparking significant political debate.
  • Binyamin Pappenheim celebrates his granddaughter's wedding, highlighting that starting a family is an essential act of faith within the ultra-Orthodox community.
  • Since Israel's establishment in 1948, the government exempted Haredim from military service to gain their support; this exemption has led to resentment among other Israelis who serve.

Changes in Military Exemption Policy

  • In 2024, amid ongoing conflicts including the Gaza war, Israel's Supreme Court revoked the military exemption for Haredim, inciting anger within the community.
  • Liat Weiss Shahaf expresses frustration over low enlistment rates among ultra-Orthodox individuals; she feels it betrays shared national responsibilities as her daughter prepares to join the army.

Community Response and Tensions

  • Young Haredi students gather to hear from Yehuda Bloy of Am Kadosh; there is anxiety due to previous arrests of community members resisting conscription.
  • Some students believe military service can coexist with their religious identity; however, Bloy remains skeptical about this perspective amidst upcoming legislative elections.
Video description

For the first time in decades, ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel are being called to serve in the country’s military. The community is furious, with protesters and military-age men openly defying the draft. Subscribe: http://bit.ly/U8Ys7n More from The New York Times Video: http://nytimes.com/video ---------- Whether it's reporting on conflicts abroad and political divisions at home, or covering the latest style trends and scientific developments, New York Times video journalists provide a revealing and unforgettable view of the world. It's all the news that's fit to watch.