Israel Coalition to Advance Bill Exempting More Haredi Men From Military Service

Israeli Cabinet Approves Bill

Bill Could Have Far-reaching Implications for Haredi Society

JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel’s coalition government on Sunday approved a bill that would exempt more Haredi Orthodox men from mandatory military service.

The bill, which still needs to be approved by the Knesset, would raise the age at which Haredi men are required to register for the draft from 18 to 21.

It would also allow Haredi men who are already registered for the draft to defer their service for up to five years if they are enrolled in full-time religious study.

The bill is supported by the Haredi parties in the coalition government, which have long argued that Haredi men should be exempt from military service so that they can focus on their religious studies.

It is opposed by the secular parties in the coalition government, which argue that Haredi men should be required to serve in the military like all other Israeli citizens.

The bill is likely to face a legal challenge from the Supreme Court, which has previously ruled that blanket exemptions from military service are unconstitutional.

If the bill is passed, it could have a far-reaching impact on Haredi society in Israel.

Currently, about 40% of Haredi men serve in the military.

If the bill is passed, that number is likely to drop significantly.

This could have a major impact on the Haredi economy, as many Haredi men rely on military service for income and job training.

It could also lead to increased social tensions between Haredi and non-Haredi Israelis.