The court struck down a law that codified exemptions in 2017, but repeated court extensions and government delaying tactics over a replacement dragged out a resolution for years.
The court ruled that in the absence of a law, Israel’s compulsory military service applies to the ultra-Orthodox like any other citizen.
During arguments, government lawyers told the court that forcing ultra-Orthodox men to enlist would “tear Israeli society apart.”.
Many fear that greater contact with secular society through the military will distance adherents from strict observance of the faith.
“The real solution to the draft problem is not a Supreme Court ruling,” the statement said.
Critics have said they are ill-prepared to serve in the military or enter the secular work force.
The court ruling does not address the status of Israel’s Palestinian citizens, who are not expected to serve and most of whom do not. »
