Story perspectives

Shas Leader Pushes Torah Draft Exemption Amid IDF Shortage, Riots

6/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Shas leader Aryeh Deri pledged on June 7 to push a Basic Law making Torah study a draft exemption at Neve Tzedek Military Prison.
The Israel Defense Forces warned that draft exemptions could jeopardize operational readiness because of a manpower shortage.
Netzah Yehuda Organization urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt arrests of yeshiva students, saying they damage recruitment.
Ultra-Orthodox protesters rioted in Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh on June 6, injuring police.

History

Historical Context

The Knesset enacted the Tal Law in July 2002 after the 1999 Tal Committee, passing it 51-41 to give yeshiva students a “decision year.” The High Court declared it unconstitutional on 21 February 2012, noting only 1,115 of 41,450 students used the option and just 31 enlisted. In June 2024 Aryeh Deri’s pledge to draft a Basic Law challenges Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and risks court battles and manpower shortfalls.

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Story summary

Shas leader Aryeh Deri pledged on June 7 to push a Basic Law making Torah study a draft exemption at Neve Tzedek Military Prison.
The Israel Defense Forces warned that draft exemptions could jeopardize operational readiness because of a manpower shortage.
Netzah Yehuda Organization urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt arrests of yeshiva students, saying they damage recruitment.
Ultra-Orthodox protesters rioted in Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh on June 6, injuring police.

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