Story perspectives

72% of Jewish Israelis Back Ultra-Orthodox Enlistment Law

By Drooid · Oct 16, 2026, 10:58 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Israel Democracy Institute poll finds 72% of Jewish Israelis support a law requiring ultra-Orthodox enlistment.
71% of Jewish respondents back a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre.
58% of Arab Israelis favor exploring negotiations with the Palestinians, the highest support among groups.
55% of respondents approve the policy encouraging West Bank settlements.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced Israel will close the UK consulate in Jerusalem.

History

Historical Context

After a 1998 Supreme Court ruling, Prime Minister Ehud Barak formed the Tal Committee (1999) and the Knesset passed the Tal Law in 2002 to draft Haredi men, but the law was extended only once before the court struck it down in February 2012. A 2024 poll finds 72% of Jewish Israelis now support mandatory service, reflecting the backlash that led to the law’s repeal.

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Story summary

Israel Democracy Institute poll finds 72% of Jewish Israelis support a law requiring ultra-Orthodox enlistment.
71% of Jewish respondents back a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre.
58% of Arab Israelis favor exploring negotiations with the Palestinians, the highest support among groups.
55% of respondents approve the policy encouraging West Bank settlements.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced Israel will close the UK consulate in Jerusalem.

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