Ultra-Orthodox Jews Block Highway in Israel After Court Orders Mandatory Military Service
In a dramatic protest, hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jews recently blocked a major highway in central Israel, responding to a Supreme Court ruling that mandates their participation in military service. This ruling challenges the long-standing exemption that has allowed ultra-Orthodox men to devote themselves to religious studies instead of joining the Israeli Defense Forces. This exemption has been a point of contention, sparking resentment among many Israelis who see it as an unequal distribution of civic responsibilities. Military service is a rite of passage for most Jewish citizens in Israel, seen as a crucial part of national duty. However, ultra-Orthodox communities have historically been exempt due to political agreements that allow them to focus on religious study in yeshivas. This arrangement has been fiercely defended by the ultra-Orthodox, who view their spiritual study as a vital contribution to the nation's well-being. Many fear that military serv...
