The ongoing debate over the military conscription of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community has escalated into tragedy, drawing national and international attention to one of the most divisive issues in Israeli society. The recent death of 14-year-old Yosef Eisenthal, who was tragically run over by a bus during a protest in West Jerusalem, has intensified scrutiny of the longstanding exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews from mandatory military service.

The Fatal Incident in Jerusalem

On January 6, 2026, tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men gathered in the Romema neighborhood of West Jerusalem to protest government pressure to conscript Haredi men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). During the demonstration, Eisenthal was struck by a bus, which reports suggest had been targeted by protestors prior to the collision. Three other teenagers were also injured in the chaotic incident. Israeli security forces quickly secured the area, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement vowing a thorough investigation and calling for restraint to prevent further tragedies.

The incident highlights the emotional intensity surrounding Haredi military exemptions—a policy rooted in Israel’s early years but increasingly controversial in today’s sociopolitical climate.

Historical Context: Haredi Military Exemptions

Since the creation of Israel in 1948, a small number of highly skilled ultra-Orthodox scholars were granted exemptions from mandatory military service, allowing them to focus on full-time religious study. Over the decades, influential religious parties, including United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, have expanded these exemptions, resulting in nearly 90% of ultra-Orthodox men of conscription age avoiding military service.

The rationale behind these exemptions is religious: Haredi leaders argue that young men must dedicate their lives to studying Jewish law and traditions in yeshivas, rather than serving in the army. However, legal challenges have sought to enforce conscription, most recently via Israel’s Supreme Court, reigniting a fierce national debate.

Political Ramifications

The conscription debate poses a significant threat to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition. UTJ and Shas, critical coalition partners, have repeatedly threatened to withdraw from the government or block key legislation if Haredi exemptions are reduced or eliminated. Analysts describe these parties as pressure groups representing the interests of their community rather than the broader Israeli society.

Yossi Mekelberg, senior consulting fellow at Chatham House, notes, “All they have is their own religious base. Preserving that base is about keeping young Haredi men out of the army, where exposure to secularism could challenge their religious values.”

Despite public support for ending the exemptions, Netanyahu faces a difficult balancing act: maintaining coalition stability while responding to societal calls for equality in national service.

Social Division and Public Opinion

The ultra-Orthodox exemption issue is a flashpoint in a broader societal schism between secular and religious Israelis. Surveys show strong public support for ending Haredi military exemptions, reflecting frustration over perceived inequalities. Many Israelis see the growing Haredi population, which continues to expand rapidly, as a potential long-term challenge for social cohesion and economic integration.

UTJ leader Meir Porush emphasized the dangers facing ultra-Orthodox demonstrators, warning that incitement against their community threatens public safety. Yet, Israeli political analysts note limited sympathy for the ultra-Orthodox among the broader population, partly due to social distancing between the communities.

Demographic and Economic Concerns

The Haredi population is not only growing but also increasingly influential in Israeli politics. From 9.9% of the population in 2009, ultra-Orthodox Jews are projected to constitute over 30% by 2065. With large families and continued reliance on yeshiva education rather than secular schooling, the community’s demographic growth presents challenges for Israel’s labor force and economy.

Mekelberg warns, “An ultra-Orthodox family will typically have six to seven children. Most boys will not study core subjects like mathematics or science and will rely on state benefits. This is a demographic and societal challenge happening now, not just in the future.”

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

The deadly protest in Jerusalem underscores the complex intersection of religion, politics, and national service in Israel. As the Haredi community continues to grow and assert its political influence, the debate over military conscription is likely to intensify, posing significant challenges for government stability, societal cohesion, and Israel’s future. The death of Yosef Eisenthal serves as a tragic reminder of the urgent need for dialogue and resolution between the ultra-Orthodox community, policymakers, and Israeli society at large.