Ultra-Orthodox Draft Protest Exposes Fragile Israeli Government and National Security Risks

In a dramatic display of defiance, tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox men flooded the streets at the entrance to Jerusalem, turning the city into a near standstill. Clad in traditional black garments, these protesters voiced fierce opposition to planned changes in Israel's military draft laws that seek to end exemptions long granted to their community. This is not just a local dispute — it is a national security dilemma reverberating far beyond Jerusalem. As Israel faces relentless threats on its borders, the demand for robust military readiness is paramount. Yet, ultra-Orthodox factions wield outsized political influence, pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin...