Haredim

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish families are a prominent force in Israeli life, growing significantly in political and cultural clout while maintaining practices that conflict with other Israelis. Mass protests over proposed changes to military draft exemptions highlight this tension as Israel approaches national elections where these parties are expected to be key players. At the core of their doctrine is the belief that studying scripture is the highest duty, even above working or joining the armed forces.

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish groups (Haredim) are increasing in political and cultural clout, leading to conflicts with other Israelis over their religious practices and civic duties. A contentious issue is the military draft exemption for Haredi men, which sparks mass protests as Israel approaches national elections where these parties may be key players. The article details the conflict between mandatory service participation and the ultra-Orthodox belief that studying scripture is the highest duty.

The finance panel is set to allocate millions to Haredi schools and the Settlements Ministry during the Knesset recess. Opposition lawmakers and a religious liberty group criticize the move as 'electoral bribery'.

Naftali Bennett rejects the two-state solution and trails in polls as Gadi Eisenkot's party surges ahead of Israel's October 27 elections. Bennett emphasizes opposing Palestinian statehood and advocating for Israeli reforms, while Eisenkot's Yashar party leads with 23 projected seats.

Israeli authorities are enlisting rabbis and influencers to warn Haredim communities against cooperating with Iranian intelligence. Nine community members are among dozens charged with espionage in efforts to counter Iranian spying.

A series of contentious laws passed by the Coalition aim to strengthen right-wing media influence, remove legal constraints on the attorney general, and maintain the Haredim within Netanyahu's right-wing coalition.

Yuli Edelstein is leaving Likud to pursue a new political path after breaking with the government over an effort to exempt Haredim from IDF service. He is reportedly discussing joining a potential alternative to Netanyahu's party.

A bill to ban Red Cross visits to Palestinian prisoners failed due to a boycott by Haredim. The coalition chief reportedly urged opposition MKs not to oppose the measure, but his request was rejected. Ben Gvir criticized Shas for boycotting the vote, highlighting tensions between the parties.

A 2022 election study found Israeli political divides aligned with religious spectrum, with Haredim most likely to support the coalition and secular voters most likely to oppose it. The analysis suggests religiosity is a key predictor of voting behavior in Israel.

A UTJ lawmaker named Porush warns that Haredim may use physical force against the Attorney General and could stop cooperating with government authorities they accuse of persecution. The statement highlights potential tensions between Ultra-Orthodox factions and state institutions.

Haredim blocked traffic at a south Jerusalem checkpoint following the arrest of a 26-year-old suspected rioter. The individual was among 65 detained for attacking the home of a Supreme Court justice who ordered penalties against draft dodgers.

Degel HaTorah chair Gafni urges Haredim to stop cooperating with police following arrests of draft evaders. MKs advance a bill to restore daycare subsidies for children of draft dodgers.

Opposition party leaders in Israel are divided over whether to include the ultra-Orthodox (Haredim) in a future coalition government. Democrats' Golan faces criticism for advocating their inclusion, while leaders Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett insist on maintaining no compromise on draft exemptions for Haredim.

Netanyahu and the Haredim are engaged in a power struggle over the Knesset dissolution process, triggered by the ultra-Orthodox demand for draft exemptions. Analysts suggest neither side may actually want early elections, focusing instead on gaining leverage.