Ultra-Orthodox Jews block highway to protest Israel’s new mandatory military service ruling
Ultra-Orthodox Jews block highway to protest Israel’s new mandatory military service ruling
Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men have blocked a major highway in central Israel for two hours. They're protesting a recent decision by the country's high court ordering young religious men to enlist for military service.
BNEI BRAK, Israel (AP) — Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men blocked a major highway in central Israel for two hours on Thursday to protest a recent Supreme Court decision ordering young religious men to enlist for military service.
Military service is compulsory for most Jewish men and women in Israel. But politically powerful ultra-Orthodox parties have won draft exemptions for their followers that allow them instead to study in religious seminaries.
This long-standing arrangement has bred widespread resentment among the broader public — a sentiment that has grown stronger during the eight-month war against Hamas in Gaza. Over 600 soldiers have been killed, and tens of thousands of reservists have been activated, straining careers, businesses and family lives.
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