Ultra-Orthodox Highway Blockade Raises Draft-Exemption Tensions

Dozens of ultra-Orthodox demonstrators blocked Route 4 near the Yavne Interchange during rush hour on Sunday, protesting the recent arrest of two Jerusalem yeshiva students sentenced to 20 days in military prison for evading IDF enlistment. Police employed stun grenades and cleared the road after roughly two hours, reporting no arrests or injuries. The protest was organized by the Jerusalem Faction, an extremist ultra-Orthodox group that issues short-notice alerts to avoid pre-emptive police action.

Times of Israel

Israel’s High Court of Justice issued a 2024 ruling that blanket exemptions for yeshiva students lack legal basis, repeatedly urging the government to enforce enlistment. In July, the court froze coalition legislation that would have shielded draft-dodgers from arrest for seven months. The issue has become a focal point of political debate ahead of the election scheduled for October 27.

Times of Israel

The IDF has highlighted a manpower shortfall, stating it urgently needs 12,000 new recruits amid the ongoing war in Gaza and other security challenges.

Times of Israel

Shas leader Aryeh Deri warned that his party will not join or support the next government unless legislation preserving sweeping military-service exemptions for Haredi yeshiva students is passed. Approximately 80,000 ultra-Orthodox men aged 18-24 remain eligible for service but have not enlisted, while around 2,700 Haredim have joined the army over the past year, according to the IDF.

Times of Israel

• “There is nothing new under the sun.” — Avigdor Liberman, leader of the secularist Yisrael Beytenu party

Times of Israel

• “They know no one will bring them to justice, and so feel that everything is permitted. This is what it is like when the prime minister is hostage to draft dodgers.” — Avigdor Liberman, leader of the secularist Yisrael Beytenu party

Times of Israel