Civic Group Pushes for Sweeping Conscription, Threatening Torah Way of Life

A secular civic organization in Israel, known as El HaDegel, has intensified its campaign calling for sweeping military and national service conscription laws that would impact the Torah-observant community. The group, founded by army reservists following the tragic events of October 7, 2023, has positioned itself at the forefront of efforts to enforce what it terms “equal and fair enlistment” for all sectors of society.

In a recent online meeting attended by approximately 50 participants, attorney and activist Yitzhaki Glick accused the current government of advancing legislation that, in his view, does not go far enough to require full military service from all citizens, including those dedicated to Torah study. He criticized the government for using ongoing security challenges — including the war in Gaza and tensions with Iran — as a cover to push forward legislation that does not fully meet the demands of the group.

Glick declared that “every citizen of Israel needs to serve,” suggesting harsh measures such as denying state benefits to those who do not participate in military or national service. In his words, those who do not comply should be considered criminals.

Another speaker, Lilac Idelberg, a lawyer and city council member, echoed these sentiments, stating that even the current proposed law does not adequately address the army’s manpower needs. She argued for a much stricter proposal that would see all who are legally obligated drafted into service.

El HaDegel, which describes itself as nonpartisan, explicitly promotes Zionist values and seeks to shape public policy along nationalist lines. The group’s rhetoric and proposals represent a clear challenge to the longstanding arrangement that recognizes the importance of Torah learning as a fundamental value in Jewish life and the spiritual protection it provides for the Jewish people.

This push for universal conscription comes at a time when the Israeli army is reportedly preparing to send out tens of thousands of draft notices to young men in the Torah community whose previous exemptions have expired. In parallel, parties representing the Torah-observant public have signaled that they will not support the current government coalition should legislation that undermines the world of Torah be advanced.

Gedolei Yisrael have consistently emphasized that Torah study is not merely a personal endeavor but a communal merit that protects and sustains the entire nation, especially during times of physical danger. The Torah community views efforts to forcibly draft yeshiva students as an attack on the spiritual foundation of Klal Yisrael and as a grave breach of the covenant between the Jewish people and Hashem.