Religious Zionist Israelis are becoming increasingly frustrated with the ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community, driven by a growing belief that the burden of military service should be shared equally. A new survey reveals shifting attitudes that could reshape Israeli society and politics.
A Shift in Public Opinion
A fresh poll from the Truman Institute at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem paints a stark picture of changing sentiments. Over 900 people, representing a cross-section of Israel’s Jewish population, participated. The results? A significant dip in the number of religious Zionists who believe the Haredim positively contribute to society — and a rising demand for shared responsibility, especially in the military.
In July 2024, a similar survey showed a more balanced perspective. But now, frustration is bubbling over. The ongoing war in Gaza, the longest in Israel’s history, has only intensified these feelings. Many religious Zionists, who are widely known for enlisting and serving in combat units, feel they’re carrying an unfair load while Haredi men remain exempt.
The High Court Ruling and Its Fallout
The High Court of Justice overturned blanket exemptions for Haredi yeshiva students in June, a move that was supposed to shake things up. Instead, it deepened the divide. Ultra-Orthodox political leaders have refused to budge, rejecting any compromise on drafting their youth.
Meanwhile, religious Zionists are growing restless. Their patience is wearing thin. According to the survey:
- Over half of religious Zionists now say Haredim should shoulder the same national obligations as everyone else.
- Support for recognizing Haredi contributions to society dropped compared to last year.
- Calls for “equal burden-bearing” surged, reflecting a wider public sentiment.
Political and Social Implications
This shift isn’t just about public opinion — it’s reshaping the political landscape. Haredi parties have long held significant sway in Israeli coalitions, securing exemptions for their communities. But rising discontent among religious Zionists, a politically engaged and influential group, could challenge that status quo.
Prof. Ifat Maoz, head of the Truman Institute, emphasized the broader stakes. “The ultra-Orthodox society is increasingly crucial in Israeli policy, politics, and the ongoing conflict,” she explained. “We need to understand where they stand and how others perceive them.”
Religious Zionists, often seen as a bridge between secular Israelis and the ultra-Orthodox, now seem to be drifting away from that middle ground. Their growing criticism signals a potential realignment in Israel’s complex social fabric.
The Path Forward: More Division or a Turning Point?
Israel stands at a crossroads. The survey captures a moment of raw emotion and growing division. Religious Zionists — many of whom see military service as both a duty and a privilege — are increasingly unwilling to accept the Haredi exemption status quo.
Whether this fuels a larger political shift or deepens existing fault lines remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the debate over service, sacrifice, and societal roles isn’t fading anytime soon.
