Satmar Rebbe to Meet Trump Over Israeli Draft Law

President Donald Trump will host a delegation of prominent Hasidic leaders, including the Rebbes of Satmar, at the White House on Thursday. The meeting, scheduled for 7:30 PM Israel time, will focus on their opposition to Israel's military conscription law, which mandates army service for all eligible citizens, including Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men.

The Satmar Hasidic dynasty is one of the largest in the world and a leading voice of the anti-Zionist Haredi movement. The Hasidut rejects the very existence of the State of Israel, harshly criticizes Haredi parties for cooperating with it, and refuses government funding for its educational institutions in Israel to avoid interference with curriculum content.

The delegation's presence in Washington is considered highly unusual. While the White House traditionally hosts leaders of major Jewish organizations focused on strengthening Israel and combating antisemitism, this meeting involves leaders of a movement that fundamentally opposes Zionism. The Rebbes of Satmar from Kiryas Joel and Williamsburg, along with other Rebbes and yeshiva heads, are expected to attend.

Initially, the Rebbes were inclined to decline the invitation due to the busy Elul period and proximity to the High Holidays. However, after extensive persuasion by Haredi activists, they agreed to travel. The primary motivation for the visit is to enlist President Trump's support in their struggle against the draft law and to directly present him with the plight of tens of thousands of yeshiva students in Israel.