"Ultra-Orthodox Protests Escalate in Israel: Thousands Take to the Streets in Opposition to Military Enlistment Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews took to the streets across Israel on Monday, bringing the country to a standstill with widespread protests against the government's plan to make military enlistment mandatory for all citizens. The demonstrators, who blocked roads and trains, and set cars on fire, are opposed to the draft, which they argue would compromise their ability to devote themselves to Torah study and other religious pursuits. The protests are the latest manifestation of a long-standing debate over the role of Israel's ultra-Orthodox community in the country's military, with many ultra-Orthodox leaders viewing military service as incompatible with their religious values. As the protests continue to disrupt daily life in Israel, the government is facing mounting pressure to reconsider its plans and find a compromise that balances the needs of the military with the rights of the ultra-Orthodox community."
Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox demonstrated across Israel on Monday, blocking roads and trains and setting cars on fire to protest mandatory enlistment in Israel's military.
