In a landmark decision, the Israeli Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that ultra-Orthodox Jews, also known as Charedim or Haredim, must now be conscripted into military service. This ruling, which has far-reaching consequences, signifies the end of a legal exemption that previously spared ultra-Orthodox Jews from serving in the military.

The expiration of this exemption in March 2024 means that those who refuse military service will no longer receive state support. This ruling holds great importance and has the potential to fuel a cultural conflict and instigate domestic turmoil within Israel.

The ultra-Orthodox community, characterized by a literal interpretation of religious commandments and a focus on prayer and adherence to religious practices, has strongly resisted military conscription. These religiously strict Jews differ significantly from secular, liberal, conservative, and Orthodox Jews within the Jewish community.

The conflicts between the strictly religious ultra-Orthodox Jews and secular Jews have occasionally escalated, leading to intense confrontations. Instances such as the segregation of genders on buses in Jerusalem and events like the Pride Parade requiring massive police protection highlight the tensions between these communities.

Growth in the ultra-Orthodox population is a key factor in this issue. With a much higher birth rate than other families in Israel, the proportion of ultra-Orthodox individuals in the population has been steadily increasing over the decades. Currently standing at approximately 12%, it is projected to surpass 20% in the next 25 years.

The ultra-Orthodox presence is particularly pronounced in Jerusalem and the city of Bnei Brak, situated northeast of Tel Aviv. Internationally, ultra-Orthodox communities can be found in the United States, predominantly in Brooklyn, New York, and neighboring areas in New Jersey. Historically, many ultra-Orthodox Jews lived in Eastern Europe until the Holocaust, which claimed the lives of millions.

In Israeli politics, several parties advocate for the concerns of the ultra-Orthodox community and have succeeded in expanding religious schools. The current coalition government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has included ultra-Orthodox parties such as Shas and United Torah Judaism. However, the recent Supreme Court ruling has prompted these parties to threaten withdrawal from the coalition.

The Supreme Court's authority, as a secular institution, has limited significance for ultra-Orthodox Jews who prioritize religious authorities over civil ones. Consequently, it remains to be seen how this ruling will play out in practice and whether politicians will take the necessary steps to enforce conscription among the ultra-Orthodox population.

This decision marks a turning point in the relationship between the ultra-Orthodox community and the military in Israel, further deepening the cultural conflict and posing challenges for the country as it faces increasing threats in the region.