In a decisive and controversial move, Israel's Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, has mandated that the Ministry of Labor cease childcare subsidies for ultra-Orthodox Jews who evade military service. This unprecedented decision was announced this past Sunday, sparking a heated debate across the nation.
No Justification for Funding Daycare as an Incentive
In a strongly worded letter, Attorney General Baharav-Miara stated, "There is no justification for funding daycare as an incentive for those appointed to military service to study the Torah." This statement underscores a significant shift in the government's stance on balancing religious study and national service obligations.
IDF Recruitment Orders and Supreme Court Ruling
This announcement follows the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) recent issuance of recruitment orders to approximately 900 ultra-Orthodox Jews. This action was prompted by a Supreme Court ruling that abolished the longstanding exemption that had allowed these individuals to avoid military service for decades.
Announcement: Government to end daycare subsidies for families with fathers studying instead of serving in the military.
ā Echo Of Israel (@IsraelEcho) August 11, 2024
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Protests and Resistance
Of the 900 individuals notified, a mere 48 reported to the recruitment office, with the remainder staging vehement protests. These demonstrations culminated in a dramatic raid on the Tel Hashomer military recruitment center near Tel Aviv by several ultra-religious youths last Tuesday, highlighting the deep-rooted opposition within this community.
Political Backlash and Accusations
The decision has elicited fierce backlash from ultra-Orthodox government ministers. Meir Porush, Minister of Jerusalem Affairs and a member of the United Torah Judaism party, which is crucial to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition, accused Baharav-Miara of politically motivated actions. "The attorney general's advice reveals the truth: they are not interested in the needs of the Army, only the obsessive persecution of the Torah world and the ultra-Orthodox family," Porush declared.
Historic Military Exemption Expiration
This controversy comes on the heels of the expiration of a temporary rule in April that had maintained the military exemption for Haredim, the Hebrew term for ultra-Orthodox Jews. Since the founding of the State of Israel, this group has largely avoided compulsory service, citing religious commitments.
Attorney General: No daycare #subsidies for draft candidates: Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara informed Labor Minister Ben-Tzur from Shas that the state no longer has the authority to finance aid for the children of yeshiva students who do not enlist. https://t.co/BrS8UsW5to pic.twitter.com/QqYByOqnZ6
ā Global Voters (@global_voters) August 11, 2024
Supreme Court's Landmark Decision
After months of intense debate, the Supreme Court ruled that "there is no legal basis for excluding ultra-Orthodox men from the draft." The court also decreed that those who do not serve in the IDF should not receive educational subsidies or publicly funded social assistance. This landmark decision marks a pivotal moment in Israeli society, challenging the status quo and prompting a re-evaluation of national service obligations.
National Call for Equal Military Service
In light of the recent conflict with the Hamas terrorist group in Gaza, which necessitated the mobilization of approximately 300,000 reservists, there is a growing demand among Israelis for equitable military service. This sentiment is particularly strong regarding the northern border with Lebanon and the territories of Judea and Samaria (West Bank), where security concerns are paramount.
Future Implications for Ultra-Orthodox Men
Now, the 67,000 eligible Haredi men, equivalent to five military divisions, face a gradual but inevitable integration into the armed forces. This transition will be closely watched as it unfolds, with significant implications for Israeli society, the IDF, and the ultra-Orthodox community.
Conclusion
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's bold decision to halt childcare subsidies for draft-dodging ultra-Orthodox Jews represents a significant shift in policy. As Israel grapples with the challenges of national security and social equity, this move underscores the ongoing struggle to balance religious freedoms with civic duties. The coming months will be crucial in determining how this contentious issue will be resolved and what it means for the future of Israel.
