Tensions are rising in Israel as the government moves to draft ultra-Orthodox men into military service, ending a decades-long exemption that allowed them to focus on religious study. Protests have erupted in Jerusalem, with ultra-Orthodox communities fiercely resisting the change, citing religious obligations and community pressure. The Supreme Court's recent ruling has intensified the crisis, threatening Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's fragile coalition and deepening divisions within Israeli society.

The military urgently needs new recruits as the war in Gaza continues, but enlistment among the ultra-Orthodox remains low, despite thousands of draft notices. Some rabbis and community leaders are beginning to acknowledge shifting attitudes among younger members, yet public support for service remains limited. As the ultra-Orthodox population grows, many Israelis see the exemption as unsustainable, fueling calls for equal participation in national defense.

Personal stories from bereaved families and ultra-Orthodox individuals who have chosen to serve highlight the emotional and societal complexities of the issue. The debate over military service is now a central topic in yeshivas and public discourse, reflecting broader questions about identity, duty, and the future of Israeli society.