The city of Jerusalem witnessed a massive protest involving hundreds of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish Israelis, unified in opposition to proposed changes regarding military conscription exemptions for religious students. This “march of the million” saw the participation of nearly all Haredi factions, reflecting a strong stance against altering the existing legal exemptions that have been in place since Israel’s founding. With the ongoing war in Gaza, calls for the ultra-Orthodox community to contribute more to military service have escalated, intensifying the debate over their role in national defense.
Read More
On August 7, 2025, ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities mobilized in protest against the Israeli government’s attempts to conscript their youth. The demonstrations, sparked by the arrest of religious school students who evaded the draft, were framed as a defense of their religious way of life. Rabbis called for religious disobedience, urging followers to prioritize yeshivas over military service. Thousands responded to the call, expressing their commitment to the Torah and rejection of government authority.
Read More
The statement by the ex-chief rabbi—that arresting Haredi draft dodgers would result in ultra-Orthodox Jews leaving Israel—has sparked a wide range of reactions, many of which suggest that such an exodus wouldn’t be viewed as a loss by many Israelis. The sentiment revolves around the substantial economic burden the Haredi community places on the country.
Many believe the Haredi community’s exemption from military service and their reliance on extensive government subsidies are unsustainable. A large percentage of Haredi men do not participate in the workforce, instead dedicating their time to Torah study, while receiving significant financial support from the state. This, according to many, constitutes a significant drain on the Israeli economy and creates an inequitable system where other citizens bear a disproportionate share of the tax burden.… Continue reading
The recent events in Israel surrounding Ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters attacking an Israeli minister’s car amid anger at the military draft ruling make me question the underlying principles of these individuals. The irony is striking – these ultra-religious orthodox individuals vehemently advocate for the defense of Israel but refuse to be personally involved in the military draft. It is puzzling how they can so fervently promote warmongering but balk at the idea of being directly responsible for defending their own country.
Seeing these protesters resort to violence by hurling stones at law enforcement officers and Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf’s car is both disturbing and hypocritical.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood