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Israeli Defense Minister Gallant Calls for an End to Military Draft Exemptions for Ultra-Orthodox Community
Edited by: Fern Sidman
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has made a significant call for an end to military draft exemptions for members of the ultra-Orthodox community, raising the stakes in an ongoing political debate, according to a recently published report in The Times of Israel. Gallant’s announcement, made on Wednesday, underscores the growing pressure on the government to address a long-standing issue that has remained unresolved for years.
Speaking from Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv, Gallant emphasized the need for all sectors of society to contribute to the country’s defense efforts, particularly amidst ongoing security challenges. As was reported by the TOI, he highlighted the strains on manpower within the army, citing conflicts in Gaza and on the northern border as reasons for the necessity of broadening the pool of conscripts.
Gallant’s stance signals a potential clash with ultra-Orthodox parties, which have historically held significant influence in Israeli politics and are key to the survival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition. According to the information provided in the TOI report, the defense minister made it clear that any legislation addressing the issue of military draft exemptions must have the endorsement of centrist ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, emphasizing the need for unity and partnership in shaping the country’s future.
While acknowledging the value of religious studies, Gallant stressed the importance of physical existence in ensuring the nation’s security. The TOI report indicated that he urged lawmakers to come together to devise legislation that addresses the current situation, wherein most ultra-Orthodox men are exempt from mandatory military service in favor of pursuing a Torah education.
Gallant’s televised address reflects the gravity of the situation and the urgency with which the government must act to address the issue of military conscription.
While Gallant’s announcement was welcomed by Gantz, it has sparked immediate backlash from the ultra-Orthodox community, with vague threats of bringing down the government over the issue. The report in the TOI also said that the debate over ultra-Orthodox exemptions has resurfaced in recent weeks, fueled by the IDF’s plans to extend mandatory service terms for recruits and delay retirement for reservists in preparation for potential conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The IDF’s proposed measures were met with staunch opposition, particularly from lawmakers within the coalition, who argued that the burden of military service should be shared more equally, including by the ultra-Orthodox community. Successive Netanyahu governments have grappled with this issue since a 2017 High Court decision deemed blanket military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students discriminatory and illegal.
Efforts to draft legislation addressing the issue have faltered, as mainstream lawmakers push for a fairer distribution of the military burden, while ultra-Orthodox parties such as Shas and United Torah Judaism insist on maintaining exemptions, according to the information provided in the TOI report. Netanyahu’s governments have relied on the support of these parties to stay in power, further complicating efforts to find a resolution.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, the High Court recently threatened to annul a government resolution passed in June 2023, which instructed the IDF not to draft ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students for nine months while formulating a new law. This development underscores the pressing need for the government to act swiftly and decisively to address the issue of military exemptions.
Speaking on Wednesday, Gallant highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that the burden of service has been a longstanding challenge for 75 years, now compounded by the realities of a war not witnessed in seven decades, the TOI report said. He stressed the need for decisive agreements and decisions that have not been made in the same timeframe, underscoring the pressing need for action.
Gallant revealed that discussions have been held with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, leaders of ultra-Orthodox parties, and other coalition members, urging them to prioritize reaching an agreed framework for draft legislation, the TOI report said. He called on Netanyahu to lead a collaborative effort with all coalition factions, emphasizing the importance of consensus-building to address the issue effectively.
In response, Gantz expressed his support for Gallant’s call, emphasizing the importance of universal participation in national service as a security, national, and social imperative. As was noted in the TOI report, he pledged to work with all factions of the Knesset and all segments of Israeli society to advance legislation that reflects these principles.
Furthermore, Gantz and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot held a press conference advocating for the inclusion of both Haredi and Arab communities in national service—a move aimed at fostering greater social cohesion and equality.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Yair Lapid announced plans for his Yesh Atid party to submit legislation on the issue, advocating for an egalitarian, efficient, and fair approach to military service, according to the information in the TOI report. Lapid called on Likud to support the legislation, emphasizing the importance of unity in addressing this critical issue.
A senior source within the ultra-Orthodox parties, quoted by Haredi news website Kikar Hashabbat, speculated that Gallant’s move was a deliberate attempt to destabilize the government. The TOI reported that the source insinuated that Gallant’s decision to publicize his stance rather than engage in behind-the-scenes negotiations suggested ulterior motives.
Amichai Eliyahu, a minister from the Otzma Yehudit party, accused Gallant of aligning himself with progressive ideals that aim to weaken the nation from within. Eliyahu’s comments reflect broader concerns within conservative circles about Gallant’s motives and the potential implications of his proposal, as was pointed out in the TOI report.
The IDF’s Personnel Directorate reported a record number of deferrals for young men from the ultra-Orthodox community, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issue.
Despite these challenges, Gallant emphasized the importance of drafting all segments of society to ensure national security objectives are met. The report in the TOI said that he framed the issue as a non-partisan, national-security matter of utmost importance, underscoring the need for consensus and cooperation.
As the debate continues, political tensions are likely to escalate, with various factions jockeying for influence and attempting to shape the direction of future legislation. The March 24 deadline set by the court adds further pressure on the government to provide clarity on its plans for addressing the issue of military draft exemptions.
Ultimately, the outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications for Israeli society and national security, highlighting the delicate balance between religious freedoms, military obligations, and the broader interests of the state.
