Israel to end draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox

By Amy Teibel

Published July 31, 2012 4:00am ET

Add Washington Examiner on Google

Israel to end draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox — FILE - In this Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012 file photo Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak attends a meeting with Greek Foreign Minister, Stavros Dimas in Athens. Barak instructed the military on Tuesday to start drafting ultra-Orthodox Jewish men as it does other Israelis, setting up a potential clash over an issue that has divided the country for decades. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis, File) | Thanassis Stavrakis

JERUSALEM (AP) — In an step that could intensify a major rift among Israelis, the defense minister on Tuesday ordered the army to prepare for a universal draft of ultra-Orthodox Jewish men.

Many in the insular and rapidly growing community say they would rather go to jail than comply with an end to the decades-long draft exemptions that have caused increasing outrage in the country.

Print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Digital subscriber? Click here to login/register your account.

Full midterm coverage.Deeper analysis.

Get unlimited access to Washington Examiner's reporting, expert analysis, and coverage of the midterm elections.

Get Unlimited Access

Cancel anytime.

Tag:

World