Israel braces for unrest as IDF prepares sweeping draft enforcement

The IDF is preparing to launch large-scale arrests of ultra-Orthodox draft dodgers as early as next week, with hundreds of police officers expected to assist in the operation.

The move comes amid growing pressure to enforce military service requirements during Israel’s ongoing multi-front war. Security officials are reportedly conducting joint preparations for potential unrest and protests as enforcement efforts ramp up.

The development sparked fierce backlash from haredi leaders, with MK Moshe Gafni urging supporters to halt cooperation with police. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that those who do not study Torah must serve, praising the growing number of haredi soldiers joining the IDF’s Hasmonean Brigade.

Draft dodgersharediIDFUltra-Orthodox