JERUSALEM, June 2: Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews staged protests across Israel on Monday against plans to expand military conscription, blocking roads and rail services, setting cars on fire and clashing with police.
Demonstrations disrupted major transport routes in Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv area, while police used water cannons and mounted units to control crowds.
Authorities also reported that protesters attacked a soldier near one demonstration.
The protests reflect growing tensions over long-standing exemptions that allow many ultra-Orthodox men to avoid military service while studying in religious seminaries.
The issue has become increasingly contentious as Israel’s military faces severe manpower shortages amid ongoing operations in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, as well as conflict with Iran.
Only a small percentage of ultra-Orthodox men enlist each year, despite around 13,000 reaching conscription age annually.
Many Israelis argue that exemptions are unfair, particularly as reservists face repeated deployments.
The dispute has also shaken Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition after ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew support.
Ultra-Orthodox leaders argue that military service threatens their religious way of life and exposes young men to secular influences.
The Israeli Supreme Court ruled the exemptions illegal in 2017, but they have remained in place through repeated extensions and political delays.(AP)
