The new Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, approved the issuance of about 7,000 recruitment orders for ultra-Orthodox Israelis, with the first 1,000 sent out this Sunday. Katz expressed his desire to engage in in-depth dialogue with all parties to achieve a consensus solution that allows for the integration of ultra-Orthodox individuals into the Army.
Previously, this measure was approved by former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant a day before being dismissed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite opposition from the ultra-Orthodox parties Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ), which Netanyahu relies on to sustain his coalition, Katz decided to proceed with the gradual implementation of the measure in the coming months.
The Israeli Supreme Court had ruled the end of military exemption for ultra-Orthodox individuals, leading to debate about the necessity of their integration into the army and society in general. This change will mean that those who do not serve in the Army will not receive educational subsidies or social assistance.
In Katz's words, "The Army will do everything possible to provide ultra-Orthodox individuals with a supportive environment that ensures their ability to fulfill their tasks, while still maintaining their religious lifestyle." On the other hand, the Israeli opposition leader, Yair Lapid, praised the decision of the former Foreign Minister to move forward with the new recruitment orders for ultra-Orthodox individuals, emphasizing the importance of this integration into Israeli society.
