Measures against ultra-Orthodox conscientious objectors are paused
Israel's parliament, the Knesset, approved a bill on Tuesday to suspend all measures against ultra-Orthodox Jews who refuse military service for three months, Haaretz reports.
The bill means that summonses, investigations and arrests of ultra-Orthodox conscientious objectors are paused until November 30. But since the country's constitution states that legislation that expires at the beginning of a new term is extended by three months, the proposal effectively means a six-month pause.
The bill, which was passed by 58 votes to 54, has been heavily criticized by the opposition and relatives of serving soldiers.
Israel's Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warns that the law will increase inequality and damage trust among those who actually serve in the military.
The bill comes at a difficult time for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is struggling to maintain a majority in the Knesset.
Ultra-Orthodox Jews have long been exempt from the country's mandatory military service. But in late 2024, thousands of ultra-Orthodox were called up for service after the emergency law expired and the defense forces needed to be reinforced during the war in Gaza.
This led to widespread protests and the two ultra-Orthodox parties, the Torah Party and Shas, leaving the governing coalition.
Israel goes to the polls on October 27.
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