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Ultra-Orthodox Draft Exemption Sparks Coalition Crisis

2/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rabbi Dov Lando, leader of Degel HaTorah, said no ultra-Orthodox yeshiva student will be drafted.
He argued Torah scholars belong in yeshivas and face persecution from authorities.
Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch withdrew support for the draft exemption bill, saying it falls short.
The move could threaten Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition and trigger early elections.
Critics say the bill favors Haredim and ignores the IDF's need for soldiers.

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Story summary

Rabbi Dov Lando, leader of Degel HaTorah, said no ultra-Orthodox yeshiva student will be drafted.
He argued Torah scholars belong in yeshivas and face persecution from authorities.
Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch withdrew support for the draft exemption bill, saying it falls short.
The move could threaten Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition and trigger early elections.
Critics say the bill favors Haredim and ignores the IDF's need for soldiers.