The issue of Ultra-Orthodox (“Haredi”) draft into the Israel Defense Force has polarized Israeli society for decades. Since Oct. 7, the conversation has heated up as the need for a larger army has become increasingly clear.
In this episode of “Basic Law,” Aylana Meisel, executive director of the Israel Law and Liberty Forum, is joined by Rabbi Dr. Yehoshua Pfeffer, rabbinical judge, legal scholar and founder of the Iyun Institute, for a deep dive into one of Israel’s most contentious legal and societal issues: the Haredi military draft exemption.
Together, they explore:
- The legal history of the draft exemption
- The role of Israel’s Supreme Court and judicial activism
- Tensions between Israel’s secular and Haredi communities
- The evolving relationship between Haredi society and the state
- What meaningful integration could look like
- The broader implications for Israel’s legal system and democracy
Rabbi Pfeffer brings a rare combination of Torah scholarship and legal expertise, drawing from his experience as a community rabbi, law professor at Hebrew University and advisor to Haredi soldiers in the IDF.
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JNS will host its inaugural International Policy Summit on Monday, April 28, 2025. This daylong event will convene government officials, policymakers, diplomats, security experts, leaders of pro-Israel organizations, and influencers for vital discussions aimed at addressing Israel’s critical challenges and opportunities in a post-Oct. 7 world.
Registration at this point is for invitees only. However, you can submit a request for registration at the following link.