Ultra-orthodox angry over Israel conscription row

An Israeli Supreme Court decision that could force ultra-Orthodox citizens to serve in the army like their secular counterparts sparked anger from religious leaders on Wednesday and reignited a sensitive political debate.

Tuesday’s decision strikes down a law exempting ultra-Orthodox men engaged in religious study from military service, saying it undermines equality.

The decision raises the possibility that they could be forced into service, a highly contentious proposition with political implications.

The court however suspended its decision for one year to allow for preparations for the new arrangement — which also provides the government with the

◗ The decision raises the possibility that they could be forced into service, a highly contentious proposition with certain political implications

opportunity to pass a new law.

Ultra-Orthodox political parties and their allies in government are likely to draft new legislation that could seek to override the court ruling and keep the exemption in place.

The ultra-Orthodox parties form a key part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition and have often acted as kingmakers in Israeli politics.

Around 10 percent of Israel’s eight million people are considered ultraOrthodox.