Israel’s Supreme Court Hears Haredi Draft Arrest Law Petition

Israel’s High Court of Justice began hearing petitions on Monday to overturn a recently passed law that prevents the arrest of ultra-Orthodox students evading mandatory military service. The law, enacted by the governing coalition, would suspend arrests for seven months, but the High Court issued a temporary order freezing its implementation due to concerns of discrimination. The Attorney General, represented by Attorney Enar Helman, argued the law is “an invalid and harmful law” that ignores legal warnings and creates discrimination in criminal enforcement. The Knesset’s Legal Adviser, represented by Attorney Yitzhak Barat, also urged the court to invalidate the measure, stating, “There is no choice but to strike down the law” as it violates legislative procedures and Basic Laws. The government boycotted the proceedings. Approximately 72,000 ultra-Orthodox men are eligible for service, while the IDF urgently needs 12,000 additional recruits.