The rally followed a 2024 Supreme Court order to end long-standing exemptions and enforce military service for ultra-Orthodox men, known as Haredim.

With 90,000 eligible Haredim still outside the army and 900 soldiers killed in the Gaza war, public anger over unequal burdens of service has intensified.

Jerusalem Paralyzed by Mass Rally

Police deployed over 2,000 officers and closed main roads as black-clad demonstrators filled the capital’s western entrance.

Public transport and schools were suspended while banners read “The people are with the Torah.”

A teenager died after falling from a nearby building, and police later used water cannons to disperse holdouts after hours of chanting and prayer.

During the unrest, some Haredi groups set Israeli flags on fire at the protest site. The scenes sparked widespread outrage and further escalated tensions in the country.

Court Ruling and Political Fallout

The Supreme Court ruling struck down the exemption system dating to 1948, calling it unconstitutional on equality grounds.

Haredi leaders argue that Torah study “protects Israel by pleasing God” and have vowed to collapse the coalition if forced to enlist.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich described the dispute as “a true crossroads,” warning that early elections could follow if no compromise is reached.

Draft Law Details and Division

The new bill proposes conscripting 5,000–6,000 Haredim annually and restricting travel or licenses before age 26 for those avoiding service.

Critics say it is too lenient; religious factions call it an attack on their faith.

Analysts warn that with 1.3 million ultra-Orthodox citizens—one in four first graders—the debate over military duty has become central to Israel’s demographic and political future.