Jerusalem, Israel – In a landmark decision, Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled that ultra-Orthodox men must serve in the military, marking a significant shift in the country’s long-standing exemption for this religious group. The unanimous decision by the court has sparked widespread debate and controversy across Israel.

The ruling comes after years of tension and debate over the issue of mandatory military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews, who have traditionally been exempt from serving in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to focus on religious study. The court’s decision has been praised by advocates for equality and criticized by those who argue that it infringes on religious freedom.

The debate over ultra-Orthodox military service is deeply rooted in Israeli society, with tensions between secular and religious populations often coming to the forefront. This ruling is seen as a step towards greater equality and inclusivity in the country’s military service requirements.

Opponents of the decision argue that forcing ultra-Orthodox men to serve in the military goes against their religious beliefs and could lead to further division within Israeli society. However, supporters of the ruling believe that it is necessary for all citizens to share the responsibility of defending the country.

The Supreme Court’s ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community, potentially reshaping the dynamics of religious and military life in the country. As Israel continues to navigate complex issues of religion, statehood, and identity, the debate over military service for the ultra-Orthodox is likely to remain a contentious and divisive issue for years to come.