Clashes over Haredi conscription exemption intensify in Israel
Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters confronted Israeli military police in Modi'in as officers tried to arrest a man who had not reported for military service. The clash reflects a deepening dispute over the community’s exemption from conscription, its place in wider society and the pressures on Israel as it fights wars on several fronts.
The Haredi community is about 14% of Israel’s population and could reach one-third of the Jewish Israeli population by 2050 if its growth continues at a similar rate. Government support for the community is estimated at 35 billion shekels (£8.4bn) a year, while many Haredi men study religious texts rather than join the workforce or the army. The exemption dates to Israel’s early years, but has faced greater scrutiny since the 7 October attacks; Haredi parties may also hold influence in forming the next government.
In short
- A failed call-up sparked a clash in Modi'in.
- Haredi military exemptions are under growing pressure.
- The dispute could affect Israel’s next government.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of the exemption argue that full-time religious study is a vital contribution to Jewish life and that the longstanding arrangement protects a distinct community’s way of life. They may also contend that compelling service without regard to religious commitments would deepen social divisions, and that military service should be expanded in a way that respects those commitments and shares burdens fairly.
The case against
Critics argue that an exemption for a growing share of the population is increasingly difficult to justify when other citizens are required to serve, particularly during wars that place heavy demands on the armed forces. They say broad participation in military or other national service would distribute civic duties more fairly and help ensure that public support is matched by contribution to society.
Explained simply
Israel requires most Jewish citizens to complete military service, but Haredi men who study at religious institutions have long been able to defer or avoid enlistment. The arrangement began when the Haredi community was small, and has continued through political agreements involving parties that represent it.
Haredi Jews make up about 14% of Israel’s population, and the community is growing. Many men devote themselves to religious study, while critics of the exemption argue that military service and paid work should be shared more widely; Haredi leaders say religious study is central to their way of life.
The issue has become more pressing as Israel faces wars on several fronts and the army needs personnel. It also affects public spending and political alliances, since Haredi parties may help determine which government can be formed.
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Originally published by BBC World as “The bitter row over military service that could shape Israel’s future”.