Israel Partially Relents on Housing Lottery Rules for Haredi Couples

In a significant development ahead of a High Court of Justice hearing, the Israeli government announced it will not retroactively cancel the housing lottery wins of young Haredi couples who had already secured apartments under the "Apartment Discount" program. This decision comes in response to petitions filed by the "Emmet LeYaakov BeYisrael" organization against sanctions that would have disqualified these couples, many of whom are considered draft-dodgers by the IDF, from participating in the program.

Justice David Mintz of the Supreme Court criticized the state's "procedural conduct" as improper and ordered an immediate response, rejecting a request for an extension. The partial retreat means that couples who have already won apartments can proceed to sign sales contracts, even if their eligibility certificates are not renewed due to their unresolved military status. This protects existing wins, though the underlying issue for those still waiting remains contested.

The new policy, communicated by Deputy Attorney General Dr. Gil Limon, clarifies that the requirement to resolve military service status will only apply to future lottery participants and those currently on the waiting list who have not yet won. Those on the waiting list must renew their eligibility certificates to maintain their status. If their certificates expire due to unresolved military status, they will lose their place in line.

However, if a winner on the waiting list receives a win notification before their certificate expires, their win will be preserved. The Ministry of Justice has urged the Ministry of Construction and Housing to implement this decision promptly and inform all affected participants. The High Court is set to hear the consolidated petitions on Thursday, where remaining disputes regarding the rights of those still on the waiting list are expected to be addressed.