Israeli Coalition Proposes Law to Freeze Arrests of Draft-Dodging Yeshiva Students Amid Legal Concerns

The legal advisor to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee issued a warning on July 12, 2026, regarding a proposed law aimed at freezing the arrests of draft-dodging yeshiva students. The law, backed by the coalition, would halt arrest procedures for up to 90 days following its approval. It stipulates that criminal proceedings and arrests against yeshiva students who study between 40 to 45 hours weekly would be suspended based on a declaration.

However, the legal opinion cautions that the law effectively grants immunity from criminal sanctions to these students for failing to fulfill their military service obligations, while such sanctions would still apply to the general public. This discrepancy raises concerns about unequal treatment under the law. The proposal has sparked protests among the ultra-Orthodox community against military conscription.

The full legal opinion on the bill was published alongside the announcement, highlighting the potential legal and social implications if the law is enacted. The debate continues as the coalition pushes forward with the legislation amid public and legal scrutiny.