Ultra-Orthodox Parties Fear Voter Turnout Decline Amid Conscription Law Failure

Leaders of ultra-Orthodox parties are concerned about a potential drop in voter turnout within their community, stemming from what is perceived as their political leadership's failure to pass a law exempting them from military service. Yaakov Asher, a Member of Knesset and head of the United Torah Judaism faction, expressed these fears during discussions with activists, according to recordings published by Israeli public broadcaster Kan. Asher noted the significant population growth in the ultra-Orthodox community, which he believes should translate into a substantial increase in votes, but current polls suggest this is not reflected in projected Knesset seats for the upcoming elections.

Asher emphasized the critical importance of this election, stating that while much can happen, a failure to translate population growth into votes would be a "blasphemy." He defended the parties' actions, arguing they have prevented the passage of numerous anti-religious laws that would have transformed Israel into a "European country." He specifically cited legislation proposed by Yesh Atid and the Labor party as examples of measures that, while presented as democratic, would fundamentally alter Israel's Jewish character.

The concerns are amplified by the emergence of new ultra-Orthodox parties, such as the "Ultra-Orthodox Public" party, which pose an electoral challenge to established factions. This, combined with anger over the stalled conscription exemption law, fuels worries about voter apathy and low turnout on election day. The situation was underscored by a recent protest in the settlement of Modi'in, where hundreds of ultra-Orthodox individuals demonstrated against the attempted arrest of a man evading military conscription. The protest escalated into confrontations with police before the individual was released.