Israel to forcibly draft ultra-Orthodox seminary students

The military orders follow a court decision ending exemptions for the community

Israel's military has announced plans to forcibly draft 54,000 ultra-Orthodox seminary students this month following a Supreme Court order nullifying their exemptions, the IDF reported in a Telegram post on Sunday.

Military service is mandatory for most citizens of Israel, with both men and women required to serve in the IDF for a period of 24 to 32 months, usually starting at age 18. Most of the country's Arab population, who comprise 21% of the population, is exempt from military service, although some volunteer. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students have also been exempt for decades.

The conscription notices are scheduled for distribution throughout July, with enlistments staggered over the coming year.

The IDF said it will also strengthen enforcement against draft evaders and deserters across all sectors. According to local reports, authorities plan to take swifter action against those who fail to report for duty, including authorizing border police to set up checkpoints and carry out arrests.

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The decision comes amid heightened military demands due to ongoing conflicts with Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, as well as tensions with Iran. Reservists in the IDF have reportedly expressed fatigue from extended deployments, increasing pressure on the government to broaden the draft pool.

Last June, Israel's Supreme Court ruled that the state must begin drafting the Jewish seminary students into the military. Mass protests broke out in Jerusalem, with thousands of demonstrators clashing with police, hurling rocks and attacking vehicles, including those of senior ultra-Orthodox ministers.

Ultra-Orthodox parties within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, notably United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, have threatened to withdraw support unless exemptions are reinstated through legislation. Their departure could dismantle Netanyahu's narrow parliamentary majority, potentially triggering early elections.

Ultra-Orthodox leaders argue that military integration threatens their religious lifestyle, particularly due to gender integration in the armed forces. In response, the military has pledged to accommodate their way of life and develop programs to foster inclusion.