The recent resignation of the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government marks a significant political crisis in Israel. The departure stems from disagreements over mandatory military service, particularly concerning exemptions for ultra-Orthodox seminary students, a long-standing demand of the party. This resignation leaves Netanyahu with a precarious parliamentary majority of just 61 out of 120 seats, raising concerns about the stability of his government.
The ultra-Orthodox community has historically sought exemptions from conscription, viewing military service as a threat to their religious lifestyle. However, the Israeli Supreme Court recently overturned decades of exemptions, prompting tensions between the government and ultra-Orthodox factions. In response to this legal shift, the military is now preparing to enlist thousands of ultra-Orthodox individuals annually, a move that is likely to be met with resistance from within the community.
As the political landscape shifts, another ultra-Orthodox party, Shas, is deliberating its position within the government. The situation underscores the delicate balance of power in Israeli politics, where issues of conscription and religious identity continue to provoke deep divisions. The fallout from this crisis could have far-reaching implications for Netanyahu’s administration and its ability to govern effectively, as it navigates the complex interplay of religious beliefs and national service in a diverse society.
