The bitter row over military service in Israel is intensifying, with furious protesters denouncing Israeli security forces as "Nazis." This clash is not a scene from a pro-Palestinian rally abroad but is unfolding in the heart of Israel, where hundreds of ultra-Orthodox men, dressed in white shirts, black fedoras, and long black frock coats, face off against military police in Modi'in, a city located between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The police have come to arrest a young ultra-Orthodox Jewish (Haredi) man who failed to report for military service.

Context of the Conflict

This confrontation, which occurred in early October, is one of many that have exposed one of the deepest schisms in Israeli society. The widening fault line is set against the backdrop of ongoing wars, including the unresolved conflict with Hamas in Gaza and increasing violence by extremist settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Once a tiny minority, the ultra-Orthodox community now comprises about 14% of Israel's population, with a birth rate significantly higher than that of other Israelis. If this trend continues, they could represent one-third of the Jewish Israeli population by 2050.

As the ultra-Orthodox community grows, so does the debate surrounding the financial support they receive to focus on full-time religious study. Government subsidies for this community are estimated to cost 35 billion shekels (£8.4 billion) annually. Until recently, they were exempt from military service, but as their numbers increase, pressure mounts for them to engage more with broader Israeli society.

Protests and Political Implications

Ultra-Orthodox Jews have staged numerous protests against military conscription. National security and economic issues are at the forefront of the current election, highlighting the stark division between the ultra-Orthodox and the majority of Israelis who feel they are not contributing their fair share.

With no outright majority likely for any political alliance, the role of smaller parties, including Haredi parties, will be crucial in determining who governs Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must maintain the support of ultra-Orthodox parties, despite increasing pressure to diminish their special status.