What It’s About

Israel’s government approved a proposal to maintain subsidies for military-age Haredi yeshiva students, brushing aside the Attorney General’s declaration that such measures are “not legally viable.” This move aims to support ultra-Orthodox Jews (Haredim) in continuing their yeshiva studies, even under pressure to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Why It Matters

This government action underscores the prioritization of religious education and community stability within segments of Israel’s population, particularly the Haredim. By sustaining these subsidies, the government simultaneously reaffirms its commitment to supporting Haredi families and upholding traditions integral to Israel’s diverse religious landscape.

Background

The High Court ruled in June that the longstanding exemption of Haredi yeshiva students from IDF service was no longer legal, challenging the economic incentives that helped Haredi men focus on religious studies. Consequently, the Attorney General deemed the continuation of daycare subsidies for these families untenable under the new legal context.

Ongoing Debates

Minister Yoav Ben-Tzur and other officials have criticized the ruling, citing significant socio-economic impacts, particularly on working Haredi mothers who might be compelled to leave their jobs without state-subsidized daycare. The Attorney General allowed a temporary three-month extension to facilitate a smooth transition.

Government Discussions

The government debated the matter extensively, leading to Sunday’s decision to adjust the criteria for daycare subsidies, which now maintain the existing framework until November. Simultaneously, a task force was established to evaluate the workforce participation among different populations, especially Haredi mothers.

What’s Next?

The newly formed team will present its findings within a month. If recommendations are not submitted promptly, Minister Ben-Tzur must brief the government by early November. This timeline coincides with an ongoing Supreme Court case contesting the transitional daycare subsidies.

Amidst the balancing act of adhering to legal mandates and respecting religious traditions, this decision highlights the government’s navigation through complicated socio-legal landscapes to support its diverse citizenry consistently.

This story was first published on jpost.com.