Israel Begins Drafting Ultra-Orthodox Jews Amidst Controversy

Edited by: Татьяна Гуринович

On July 6, 2025, the Israeli Army initiated the conscription of approximately 54,000 members of the ultra-Orthodox Haredi community.

These summons are being issued in phases throughout July, with the goal of having all those called report to recruitment offices during the 2025 military service year.

This action follows a Supreme Court ruling in June 2024, which mandated the army to begin enlisting ultra-Orthodox youth after a temporary exemption expired, sparking significant protests.

The Israeli government is attempting to pass legislation to maintain exemptions, while the army has begun to intensify enforcement measures. The military's actions are occurring amidst political tensions and protests.

The conscription of the ultra-Orthodox has been a contentious issue, especially since the war in Gaza, which has led to the extension of mandatory military service and the mobilization of reservists.

Young people, aged 16.5 and older, will be required to report for service in July 2026. The situation remains tense, with the army expected to increase enforcement in the coming weeks.

Sources

  • Deutsche Welle

  • El Ejército israelí comienza a enviar órdenes de reclutamiento a casi 55.000 ultraortodoxos

  • El Tribunal Supremo de Israel ordena al Gobierno que reclute a judíos ultraortodoxos, en un golpe a Netanyahu

  • Protesta de judíos ultraortodoxos contra orden de entrar al ejército se torna violenta en Jerusalén

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