News

With Its Soldiers Mired In Gaza, Israel Is Fighting A Battle At Home Over Drafting The Ultra-Orthodox.

Published

8 months ago

2024-03-26

JERUSALEM — As Israel fights a long war in Gaza, broad exemptions from mandatory military service for ultra-Orthodox men have reopened a deep schism in the country and shaken the government coalition, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fellow War Cabinet members staunchly opposed to his proposed new conscription legislation.

By the end of the month, Israel’s government must introduce legislation to increase recruiting among the religious community. As the deadline approaches, public debate has become increasingly poisonous, starkly contrasting to early-war expressions of solidarity.

With Its Soldiers Mired In Gaza, Israel Is Fighting A Battle At Home Over Drafting The Ultra-Orthodox.

So far, Netanyahu’s government has weathered the public outrage caused by Hamas’ October 7 strike, which launched the war, but the draft issue has put him in a bind. The fall of the three-member War Cabinet would jeopardize the country’s stability at a critical juncture in the conflict. However, losing the ultra-Orthodox parties would bring down his broader ruling coalition, forcing the country into new elections, as Netanyahu and his Likud party are losing in opinion polls.

“Politically, this is one of the most concrete threats to the government,” said Gilad Malach, an ultra-Orthodox researcher at the Jerusalem-based Israel Democracy Institute.

The typical Jewish male service commitment is almost three years, then several years of reserve duty. Jewish women must serve two required years. However, the politically influential ultra-Orthodox, who account for approximately 13% of Israeli society, have typically been granted exemptions provided they are enrolled full-time in religious seminaries. The exemptions and the government stipends that many seminary students get until they reach the age of 26 have outraged the general population.

The Supreme Court declared the current system discriminatory and gave the administration until April 1 to offer a bill and June 30 to pass it.

Yoav Gallant and Benny Gantz, who serve in Netanyahu’s War Cabinet, argue that the prime minister’s proposed measure does not go far enough to increase the number of ultra-Orthodox soldiers. Critics argue that some components, such as raising the exemption age, could reduce the numbers.

Gantz, Netanyahu’s main political challenger, warned that he would resign from the Cabinet if the enlistment law were reduced or if it was not passed by the deadline. Defense Minister Gallant stated that he would only accept a new law if Gantz and other centrist members of the country’s interim wartime administration agreed.

The administration consists of ultranationalist religious and Orthodox groups, which Gantz and a group of other former military generals joined in the early stages of the conflict. The merger was intended as a display of unity in the aftermath of October 7. However, the parties disagreed strongly on conscription.

Following the Hamas attack, Israel activated 360,000 reservists, its greatest mobilization since the 1973 Middle East war. Many have been freed but are anticipated to return to active duty in the following months. The increasing reserve duty and ideas of expanding mandatory service have fueled public outrage.

Israel’s Jewish majority views mandatory military service as a melting pot and rite of passage. The ultra-Orthodox argue that integrating into the army will jeopardize their generations-old way of life and that their devout lifestyle and adherence to Jewish precepts defend Israel as much as a powerful army.

“We prefer dying to serving in the Israeli army,” said Yona Kruskal, 42, a father of 11 and full-time seminary student, as he and some 200 others blocked traffic in Jerusalem last week in one of the many rallies against the conscription bill. “There’s no way you can force us to go to the army, because we are hell-bent that the army and religion contradict one another.”

As the ultra-Orthodox clashed with police during the protest, other Israelis chanted, “Shame! Shame!”

With Its Soldiers Mired In Gaza, Israel Is Fighting A Battle At Home Over Drafting The Ultra-Orthodox.

“My friends are sitting in Gaza while you’re here, sitting on the ground,” the man said. A woman yelled at the demonstrators, saying her son was serving in Gaza to protect them.

According to Oren Shvill, founder of Brothers in Arms, a protest group representing reserve troops who oppose Netanyahu, the ultra-Orthodox benefit from the army’s protection without actively participating. “There’s one law for everyone, and it should be enforced equally,” he said.

Economists believe the system is unsustainable. With its high birthrate, the ultra-Orthodox community is the fastest-growing portion of the population, rising approximately 4% each year. Every year, some 13,000 ultra-Orthodox males reach the conscription age of 18, yet less than 10% enlist, according to the Israeli parliament’s State Control Committee, which recently convened a hearing on the issue.

“One of the things that was debatable in the past but is now much clearer is that we need more soldiers,” said Yoaz Hendel, a former Netanyahu confidant and Cabinet member who recently completed four months of reserve duty as head of a special forces unit. He stated that the service burden should be distributed fairly across all community sectors.

The shock of the October 7 attack appeared to stoke some enthusiasm among the ultra-Orthodox to serve, but no big enlistment occurred, according to Israeli media. The army refused to comment on the ultra-Orthodox enrollment rate.

The subject has long split Israel, and court rulings have consistently ruled the system wrong. However, Israeli leaders have frequently postponed, citing pressure from ultra-Orthodox parties. It’s unclear if Netanyahu will be able to do so again.

As Netanyahu’s administration advanced a legal system overhaul with support from ultra-Orthodox coalition partners who sought to overturn court rulings on conscription, the rift over exemptions grew worse last year. The administration halted the overhaul after the war broke out.

The army has attempted to accommodate the ultra-Orthodox by forming distinct battalions that allow them to keep their religious traditions while reducing interaction with women.

With Its Soldiers Mired In Gaza, Israel Is Fighting A Battle At Home Over Drafting The Ultra-Orthodox.

Ephraim Luff, 65, a full-time seminary student in the ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak, rejected such efforts, claiming that the men who enlist in these units are not “real Haredim,” as the ultra-Orthodox are known in Hebrew.

“The army is the final stage of Israeli education to make people into secular Israelis and to disconnect them from their Jewish heritage,” said Luff, who described how one of his eight children “strayed from the path” of full-time learning and served in the army as a truck driver for a year and a half.

Yitzhak Yosef, one of the country’s two chief rabbis, stated last month that the ultra-Orthodox “will all move abroad” if compelled to join. According to Malach of the Israel Democracy Institute, the comment elicited both outrage for urging Israelis to leave amid a national crisis and derision because many secular Israelis would not mind the ultra-Orthodox departing en masse.

On the contrary, Malach believes that the ultra-Orthodox leadership’s refusal to compromise, even as other segments of Israeli society make major sacrifices, has alienated a larger portion of the population.

“I don’t see a real opportunity for change in this government,” he told reporters. But if there are elections and there is a coalition without haredim or with weakened haredim, there could be a change.”

SOURCE – (AP)

Kiara Grace

Kiara Grace is a staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. Her writing focuses on technology trends, particularly in the realm of consumer electronics and software. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics. Kiara delivers insightful analyses that resonate with tech enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Her articles strike a balance between in-depth coverage and accessibility, making them a go-to resource for anyone seeking to stay informed about the latest innovations shaping our digital world.

See Full Bio

News

Trudeau Accused of Sowing Divisions Between Sikhs and Hindus

Published

2 days ago

2024-11-06

Geoff Thomas

Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative Leader, has accused Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of sowing “divisions” that culminated in the violent altercation between Sikh separatists and Hindu devotees outside a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario.

Justin Trudeau initiated the question period by condemning Poilievre’s reticence regarding the violence in South Asian communities as “deafening.”

Poilievre refuted the assertion by accusing Trudeau of exploiting the matter to divert attention from domestic economic concerns.

“Consequently, he implements divisions in his residence.” Poilievre stated, “These divisions are the consequence of his actions.”

“Currently, sectarian riots are occurring on the streets of Brampton.” This has never occurred before the tenure of this prime minister. Is he accountable for the divisions he has incited and the ensuing violence?

Trudeau Must Assume Responsibility

Mr. Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative Leader, requested that the Prime Minister assume responsibility for the divisions and violence in Canada. In response, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed Poilievre’s refusal to obtain security clearance to review foreign interference documents.

Trudeau, who has frequently employed a phrase in the question period recently, urged Poilievre to undergo the security clearance procedure to receive a briefing from Canada’s intelligence and security agencies regarding potential threats to the country.

Trudeau’s remarks exacerbate an already precarious police situation, which has the potential to further deteriorate the diplomatic relationship between Canada and India.

Police dispersed a second day of demonstrations outside a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario, on Monday. The temple has been the site of violent clashes that have resulted in arrests and a public safety alert.

During the Indian consular officials’ visit to the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple in Brampton on Sunday at midday, violence erupted.

Peel Regional Police issued a public safety alert on Monday evening regarding the presence of weapons at a demonstration near a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ont. The demonstration had been the site of violent clashes between demonstrators the previous day.

Canada India Tensions

Social media videos depict demonstrators holding banners in support of Pro-Khalistan separatism, a proposed independent Sikh homeland in northern India, and engaging in physical altercations with other individuals, some of whom are holding India’s national flag.

Later, an off-duty Sergeant of the Peel police in Brampton, Ontario, was identified as one of the pro-Khalistan protesters.

In the interim, the violence prompted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make a rare comment during a period of escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

“I unequivocally condemn the intentional destruction of a Hindu temple in Canada.” “The cowardly attempts to intimidate our diplomats are equally appalling,” he shared on social media.

No amount of violence will ever undermine India’s resolve. We anticipate that the Canadian government will maintain the rule of law and ensure justice.

Last September, Trudeau expressed that there were credible allegations that the Indian government was involved in the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which marked the beginning of the deterioration of relations between the two countries. India has vigorously denied the charge.

Geoff Thomas

Geoff Thomas is a seasoned staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. With his sharp writing skills and deep understanding of SEO, he consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content that resonates with readers. Thomas' articles are well-researched, informative, and written in a clear, concise style that keeps audiences hooked. His ability to craft compelling narratives while seamlessly incorporating relevant keywords has made him a valuable asset to the VORNews team.

See Full Bio

News

Police Officer Suspended for Joining Pro-Khalistan Protest

Published

2 days ago

2024-11-06

Geoff Thomas

A Brampton, Ontario, police officer was suspended on Monday following the viralization of a video on social media that showed him participating in a pro-Khalistan protest outside a Hindu temple.

According to CBC News, the suspended Peel Regional Police officer, Harinder Sohi, was videotaped brandishing a Khalistan flag while other participants in the protest chanted anti-India slogans. He was not wearing a police uniform.

Sohi served as a Sergeant for the Peel Regional Police.

In an email to CBC News, Media Relations Officer Richard Chin informed the organization that it is “aware of a video circulating on social media that depicts an off-duty Peel Police officer participating in a demonstration.”

“This officer has since been suspended in accordance with the Community Safety and Policing Act,” according to him.

“We are investigating the circumstances in totality depicted in the video and are unable to provide further information until this investigation is complete.”

Peel Regional Police have previously stated that three individuals have been charged in connection with the violence that occurred during the visit of Indian consular officials to the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple on Sunday.

Social media videos appear to depict demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan, a proposed independent Sikh homeland in northern India, and engaging in a physical altercation with other individuals, some of whom are holding India’s national flag.

The videos appear to depict fist battles and individuals striking each other with poles on the grounds outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple.

According to Peel police, the event was ultimately relocated to two additional locations in the neighboring city of Mississauga, where additional demonstrations were also conducted.

Peel police acknowledged the protest on Sunday at noon and announced that they had increased their presence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir temple to preserve public safety and order.

“We acknowledge the right to peacefully and safely protest; however, we will not tolerate criminal activities or violence,” stated Chief Nishan Duraiappah in response to the videos’ dissemination.

“Those that do participate in this activity will be pursued, arrested, and charged.”

The violence elicited condemnations from Canadian political leaders at all levels of government and also prompted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make a rare comment during a period of escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his concern regarding the “deliberate attack” and requested accountability from the Canadian government, which Justin Trudeau heads. He anticipated that the government would uphold the rule of law and ensure justice.

PM Modi expressed his strong condemnation of the deliberately targeted assault on a Hindu temple in Canada in a post on X. The contemptible endeavors to intimidate our diplomats are equally repulsive. No amount of violence will ever be able to undermine India’s resolve.

In the interim, the Minister of External Affairs (MEA) expressed its “profound concern” regarding the safety and security of Indian nationals in Canada, and it anticipates that those who engage in violence will be prosecuted.

The Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Ontario, was the site of violent acts committed by separatists and extremists yesterday. We condemn these actions. “We urge the Canadian government to guarantee that all places of worship are safeguarded from such attacks,” stated Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the MEA.

India Slams Trudeau Over Pro-Khalistani Sikhs Attack

India Slams Trudeau Over Pro-Khalistani Sikhs Attacking Canadian Hindus

Geoff Thomas

See Full Bio

News

Pro-Khalistanis Sikhs Attack Hindu Temple in Brampton

Published

4 days ago

2024-11-04

Geoff Thomas

Pro-Khalistanis Sikhs, Hindu Temple, Brampton, Ontario

Pro-Khalistanis Sikhs attack Hindu Temple in Bramption Ontario.

Police in Brampton, Ontario, were summoned to the Hindu Temple after a group of pro-Khalistanis Sikhs attacked Hindu worshipers on Sunday. According to the Hindu Canadian Foundation, supporters of the Khalistaani movement in Canada helped to carry out the “attack.”

Following its posting on X, a video of the attack with demonstrators brandishing Khalistan flags at the Hindu Temple’s front entrance quickly became viral, inciting indignation among the Hindu community in Canada and India.

Chandra Arya, a Liberal MP from Canada, denounced the violence and claimed that under the country’s “freedom of expression,” extremists are getting away with it.

According to Arya, he began to think there might be some truth to the claims that Khalistanis have successfully infiltrated Canada’s law enforcement forces and political machinery.

Today, Canadian Khalistani fanatics have crossed a line. The attack by Khalistanis on Hindu-Canadian worshipers within the Hindu Sabha temple’s grounds demonstrates the extent and blatantness of Khalistani violent extremism in Canada.

In a post on X, he stated, “I start to believe that there is a sliver of truth in the reports that Khalistanis have successfully infiltrated not only our political apparatus but also our law enforcement agencies.”

It is understandable why Khalistani fanatics are receiving a free pass in Canada under the guise of “freedom of expression.” As I’ve been saying for a while, Hindu Canadians must stand up, defend their rights, and hold politicians responsible for the safety and security of our community,” he continued.

Peel Regional Police said they were aware of the demonstration in the city’s northeast and are investigating the situation.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms states, “We respect the individual right to protest, but it is still our duty and responsibility to maintain public order and ensure everyone’s safety. ” Therefore, we request the public’s help participating in and supporting a nonviolent and legal protest.

Peel police warned that any acts of violence, threats of violence, or vandalism would be looked into and said they would be more visible and present to keep an eye on the situation.

Taking his X account, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown also conveyed his dissatisfaction after learning of the “acts of violence” outside the Hindu Sabha.

“In Canada, religious freedom is a fundamental virtue. In their house of worship, everyone ought to feel secure. Brown stated in his letter that he is “completely confident that Peel police will do everything in their authority to keep the peace and hold those accountable who commit acts of violence.” “I strongly condemn any acts of violence outside of a place of worship,” Brown added.

“The violence at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton was unacceptable,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also posted on X.

Every Canadian has the right to freely and securely follow their religion. “Swiftly responding to protect the community and investigate this incident” was how he praised the cops.

As Ottawa frequently rejected New Delhi’s demands for tough measures against Khalistani radicals in Canada, the incident took place during a time of poor relations between India and Canada. Instead, it sparked a huge diplomatic dispute by accusing India of targeting Khalistani people inside its borders.