Massive Protest in Jerusalem: Ultra-Orthodox Jews Rally Against Military Conscription Amid Coalition Crisis

Oct 31, 2025 12:19 am CST

Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men gathered in Jerusalem to protest against mandatory military service, highlighting a growing crisis in Netanyahu's coalition government. The demonstration follows the Israeli Supreme Court's ruling that ended religious exemptions, threatening political stability as ultra-Orthodox parties warn they may withdraw support unless exemptions are legally protected. Despite increased enlistment, the issue remains divisive in Israeli society with approximately 66,000 ultra-Orthodox men currently exempt from service.