The issue of haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews) in Israel not serving in the IDF has been a contentious topic for decades.
In the current status quo established in the early days of the State of Israel, haredi yeshiva students have an exemption from serving in the IDF or partaking in Sherut Leumi (national service). However, this has caused many others in Israel to feel there is an unfair distribution of the burden of serving the country. Coupled with the low employment rates for haredim in Israel, and this has led to widespread tension against ultra-Orthodox Israelis.
The courts have ruled that the current exemption for haredim not to serve in the army is illegal and efforts to resolve the issue are still ongoing.
“His [Edelstein’s] soul is an abomination, he was a Prisoner of Zion and came to the land [of Israel], it is too bad he came, he should have remained there," Yosef said.
Zionism is not a secular ideology to be shunned; it is the modern manifestation of a 2,000-year-old hope. What could be more Torah-true than helping defend Jewish life in the land of our ancestors?
"Everyone must serve: Secular, religious, and haredim," Gallant said in response.
Because of the government's lack of progress on the haredi draft bill, some coalition parties are expected to leave the government.
According to Israeli law, if a bill to disperse the Knesset passes, an election is automatically called and must occur within 90 days.
Every single Jew was included in the events of Mount Sinai and the kindness that Naomi and Ruth showed each other, should be the guiding principles of all Jewish leaders.
Israeli society is splitting in two, and the bridges, if any still exist, are collapsing rapidly. How can we repair our divides?
This could change pending an assessment by haredi MKs later this week, according to one of the spokespersons.
Opposition MKs also slammed the Netanyahu administration for dragging out drafting eligible Haredi men.
“If Torah learners are arrested, we won't be able to continue in this coalition,” haredi leaders told Maariv.
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