Israeli Legal Advisor Highlights Persistent Draft Evasion Among Ultra-Orthodox Despite Increased Enlistment

The Israeli government’s legal advisor reported on Tuesday that although there has been a rise in enlistment numbers among the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, draft evasion remains widespread within this group. Approximately 80% of all draft evaders in Israel come from the ultra-Orthodox sector.

Key insights from professionals analyzing the past recruitment year indicate that issuing draft orders to all eligible ultra-Orthodox individuals, enhanced enforcement measures, personal financial penalties, and adapting service tracks have proven effective in increasing enlistment figures.

To further reduce evasion and address urgent security needs to expand the military, the advisor emphasized the necessity to broaden the range of personal financial enforcement measures swiftly. Additionally, the army and police are urged to resume proactive operations and arrests targeting draft evaders from all population sectors, adhering to the principle of equality. Experts stress that such proactive campaigns are crucial for deterring draft evasion.