Supreme Court Ruling Sparks Outrage Among Ultra-Orthodox Community
The recent Supreme Court decision to recruit yeshiva students and halt funding for those who did not obtain exemptions has ignited a storm of criticism from ultra-Orthodox newspapers and political leaders. The ruling, which is seen as a direct attack on the Torah world, has led to severe backlash from the ultra-Orthodox sector.
Ultra-Orthodox Newspapers Condemn the Decision
Ultra-Orthodox newspapers such as Yad Na'am, the Herald, and the Informer have published scathing headlines like "Sword on the Beit Midrash" and "The Supreme Court breaks the status quo and declares war on the Torah world." These publications argue that the High Court's decision undermines generations of Torah study and threatens the future of the country.
Political Leaders React
Ultra-Orthodox political leaders have echoed these sentiments, with MK Israel Eichler of Torah Judaism calling the Supreme Court a "dictatorial body" and Minister Meir Proosh warning of a divided state. Shas chairman MK Aryeh Deri emphasized the historical resilience of the Jewish people, attributing their survival to the preservation of the Torah and commandments. The leaders expressed a firm stance that no ruling can sever the Jewish people from their commitment to Torah study.
- The ultra-Orthodox community's response to the Supreme Court ruling highlights a deep-seated tension between secular and religious sectors in Israel. The decision to recruit yeshiva students is perceived not just as a legal matter but as an existential threat to the religious way of life that has been preserved for millennia.
- The backlash is not limited to media outlets; political figures within the ultra-Orthodox community have also issued strong statements. MK Israel Eichler's comments reflect a broader sentiment of distrust towards the judiciary, which is seen as overstepping its bounds and infringing on religious freedoms.
- The potential political ramifications are significant. If the coalition fails to pass legislation that protects the legal status of Torah students, ultra-Orthodox parties may find it challenging to remain within the government. This could lead to a political crisis, further destabilizing an already volatile situation.
