Ultra-Orthodox Community Clashes With Police in Jerusalem Over Military Enlistment

Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men clashed with Israeli police in central Jerusalem on Sunday. They were protesting a Supreme Court order mandating their enlistment for military service. The recent ruling could destabilise Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition as Israel continues its conflict in Gaza.

Military service is mandatory for most Jewish men and women in Israel. However, ultra-Orthodox parties have secured exemptions for their followers, allowing them to study in religious seminaries instead. This arrangement has caused resentment among the general public, especially during the ongoing eight-month war against Hamas.

Protests Turn Violent

Tens of thousands of men initially gathered in an ultra-Orthodox neighbourhood to protest the court order. As night fell, the crowd moved towards central Jerusalem and became violent. Protesters threw rocks and attacked the car of an ultra-Orthodox Cabinet minister, pelting it with stones.

Israeli police responded by using water cannons filled with skunk-scented water and mounted officers to disperse the crowd. Despite these efforts, the demonstration remained uncontrolled late into Sunday night.

Impact on Netanyahu's Coalition

The ultra-Orthodox parties are crucial members of Netanyahu's governing coalition. Their potential departure could trigger new elections, a risky move given the coalition's declining popularity since the October 7 Hamas attack that ignited the war.

Party leaders have not yet decided whether to leave the government. The decision carries significant risk as Netanyahu's coalition has been losing support since the conflict began.

Public Sentiment and Resentment

The long-standing exemption for ultra-Orthodox men has bred public resentment. This sentiment has intensified during the war, which has seen over 600 soldiers killed and tens of thousands of reservists called up, disrupting lives and careers.

Ultra-Orthodox parties argue that forcing their men to serve in the army would destroy their traditional way of life. Earlier on Sunday, thousands gathered in a square for mass prayers, holding signs criticising the government. One sign read, "not even one male" should be drafted.

The landmark Supreme Court decision last week ordered the government to begin drafting ultra-Orthodox men. This ruling could lead to significant political upheaval as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza.

In summary, the protest against mandatory military service for ultra-Orthodox men has escalated tensions in Israel. The situation remains volatile, with potential political ramifications for Netanyahu's government amid ongoing conflict.