Israeli military chief reports troop shortage, plans to draft ultra-Orthodox

Israel’s army does not have enough combat soldiers and is working to recruit ultra-Orthodox Jews into the military, the military chief said on Thursday, Haaretz reported.

Speaking at a Hanukkah event, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said Israel’s security needs are “extensive” and the Israeli military is aiming to expand its ranks.

While most Jewish men and women are expected to serve at least two years in the army, ultra-Orthodox Jews, also known as the Haredim, have always been exempt.

In June 2024, Israel’s Supreme Court ruled they could be conscripted, leading to mass opposition from the Haredim.

Related: Israel's genocide in Gaza: Why are ultra-Orthodox Jews against conscription?