Violent protests erupt in Israel over military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men

There have been violent protests in Israel, particularly in the city of Bnei Brak, over the long-standing policy that exempts ultra-Orthodox Jewish men from mandatory service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). In several incidents, ultra-Orthodox mobs chased and attacked IDF soldiers, including female soldiers and veterans, leading to police intervention and arrests.

A top ultra-Orthodox rabbi has vowed that no religious seminary students will be drafted. The clashes have intensified a public debate, with many Israelis expressing anger over the exemptions while some on the political left are also criticizing the military service system.