Ultra-Orthodox Parties Demand Full Draft Exemption for Yeshiva Students

The United Torah Judaism alliance, specifically its Agudat Yisrael and Degel HaTorah factions, has solidified its negotiating stance in coalition talks, demanding a complete exemption from military service for all yeshiva students without any sanctions. This represents a significant shift, particularly for Degel HaTorah, which had previously engaged in discussions about a conscription law that included personal sanctions, aiming for a legally viable framework.

Furthermore, the agreement stipulates that until the Knesset enacts legislation formalizing the status of Torah scholars, the faction will not support any bills, with exceptions to be defined by senior rabbinical authorities. This commitment extends to government and Knesset positions, as the faction's representatives will not serve as ministers, deputy ministers, or committee chairs until the law is passed.

This hardened position comes amid ongoing debates surrounding the draft law and its implications for the ultra-Orthodox community. Previous reports indicated internal discussions within Degel HaTorah regarding the challenges of securing a draft exemption for their students and potential public backlash.