Israeli Group Demands Halt to Municipal Funding for Ultra-Orthodox Cultural Activities Linked to Draft Evasion

The organization "Free Israel" has formally demanded that the State Attorney and legal advisors in several municipalities immediately stop all municipal funding directed to ultra-Orthodox institutions and activities involving yeshiva students who have not regularized their military service status. This legal and public campaign is based on recent Supreme Court rulings prohibiting government funding to yeshivas attended by draft-eligible young men without legal deferments or exemptions.

While the national government has begun cutting direct funding to religious institutions, "Free Israel" is now targeting local authorities, accusing them of continuing to channel money indirectly through cultural events, conferences, and performances aimed at the ultra-Orthodox community. The group highlights major annual events held during the "bein hazmanim" (vacation periods) organized by community centers, educational networks, and local organizations that attract thousands.

The organization argues that all public funds invested in these activities should be scrutinized, as they allegedly serve as indirect funding to individuals and bodies not complying with the law. In contrast, representatives of the ultra-Orthodox community reject these demands as politically motivated attacks on their legitimate rights. They emphasize that cultural events serve the broader community, including families, women, children, and youth, and are part of basic municipal services provided proportionally to all residents.

Municipalities also note their longstanding policy of offering culturally tailored programs for all sectors and communities as an integral part of urban life. The dispute signals a potential escalation in the legal and political battles over funding for ultra-Orthodox institutions amid ongoing tensions regarding military conscription in Israel.