Reform Groups Challenge IDF Order on Ultra-Orthodox Draft Citing Gender Discrimination

The Reform Center for Religion and State, together with the Israel Women's Lobby and Na'amat, filed a petition to Israel's Supreme Court against the IDF's new order on drafting ultra-Orthodox men. The petition argues that the order effectively institutionalizes the exclusion of women from certain military roles. It claims the IDF is formalizing service tracks that distance women from the military environment, block them from specific positions, and guarantee ultra-Orthodox soldiers service in areas where female soldiers are not permitted. The petition states, "The order changes the character of the IDF as a people's army and harms female soldiers solely because of their gender."