Israel's Supreme Court Ruling On Ultra-Orthodox Subsidies

Israeli police officers scuffle with ultra-Orthodox Jewish men during a protest against a potential new draft law which could end their exemptions from military service in Jerusalem, on March 1

The court's decision challenges a system that has long provided exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men from military service, favoring their full-time religious studies over mandatory enlistment. This exemption has been a source of resentment among the broader Israeli public, particularly as the country grapples with the toll of the conflict in Gaza.

The Supreme Court deemed the current system discriminatory and mandated that the government present a new plan by Monday, with a deadline for implementation set for June 30. Netanyahu has requested an extension to find a compromise, but the court has yet to respond. In the interim, the court has halted state funding for subsidies to religious students of enlistment age who have not received army deferrals, effective Monday.

While the loss of subsidies is significant, reports indicate that yeshivas rely on only a small portion of state funding, suggesting they can continue operating. Netanyahu's coalition may explore alternative funding sources to bridge any financial gaps.

Reactions to the Decision

Many Israelis have welcomed the court's ruling, viewing it as a step towards ending a system that they perceive as unfair and unsustainable. The religious exemption for ultra-Orthodox individuals dates back to Israel's inception but has become a divisive issue as the ultra-Orthodox population has grown.

Court deems current system discriminatory, mandates new plan.

Ultra-Orthodox men's military service exemptions under scrutiny.

Netanyahu seeks compromise amid court's ruling on enlistment.

State funding halted for religious students not receiving army deferrals.

Yeshivas may seek alternative funding sources to bridge financial gaps.

Israeli public divided on court's decision, with some welcoming change.

Ultra-Orthodox leaders have condemned the decision, characterizing it as an attack on Torah study and their way of life. They argue that their religious devotion is as vital to Israel's security as a strong military and have vowed to resist any attempts to compel their community to enlist.

Challenges for Netanyahu

Netanyahu faces a delicate balancing act as he navigates the fallout from the court's ruling. With the conflict in Gaza straining the economy and military, Netanyahu risks losing support from centrist members of his coalition if he seeks to maintain exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox.

The ultra-Orthodox parties, key allies of Netanyahu, are staunchly opposed to ending draft exemptions. If they withdraw their support, Netanyahu's coalition could collapse, potentially triggering new elections at a time when his popularity is waning amidst the ongoing conflict.