Israel’s government is expected to collapse over ultra-Orthodox military draft

In Jerusalem, police used water cannons to disperse ultra-Orthodox Jewish men protesting against Israel’s military draft. The protest highlights a political crisis for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose coalition may collapse after an ultra-Orthodox partner called for parliament to dissolve. This crisis stems from Netanyahu’s refusal to advance legislation exempting ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service, a contentious issue as most Jewish Israelis are required to serve. The Supreme Court has ordered the government to draft ultra-Orthodox Israelis, increasing pressure on Netanyahu. If parliament dissolves, elections could occur in September, with Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid as potential challengers to Netanyahu. This situation is significant as it could reshape Israel’s political landscape and affect military policies. QUESTION: How might the inclusion of ultra-Orthodox Jews in military service impact Israeli society and its future?