In Israel, military service debate spotlights ultra-Orthodox Jews and their growing clout

In Israel, a heated debate over the country's military draft is thrust into the spotlight due to the growing influence of ultra-Orthodox Jews. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish families are easily identifiable by their distinct dress code and numerous children. Their numbers are on the rise, along with their political and cultural influence.

This growing clout clashes with the perspectives of other Israelis, both religious and secular. Distrust is mounting on all sides. The most contentious issue is a proposed change to the exemption from military service for ultra-Orthodox men. This has sparked mass protests.

The core tenet of ultra-Orthodox doctrine is the belief that studying scripture is the highest duty, even above working or serving in the military. Judith Rosenblum, a mother of eight, feels that ultra-Orthodox practice is under threat from secular culture. She acknowledges that conscripting young men into the military could "compromise" their religious practice, yet three of her sons did serve after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.

To Rosenblum, full-time Torah study is central to ultra-Orthodox beliefs. She acknowledges that while her sons could have chosen to focus solely on studying, the ones who served in the army are "amazing human beings." She firmly believes that they made the right choice by defending their country.