Israel's High Court of Justice convened on Sunday, April 13, 2026, to hear petitions demanding the immediate conscription of ultra-Orthodox (haredi) men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The hearing comes after the government failed to present a new conscription law by a March 31 deadline set by the court, leaving a legal vacuum.
The petitions, filed by the Movement for Quality Government in Israel and other civil society groups, argue that the government's ongoing delays are illegal and create inequality, as other Israeli citizens are subject to mandatory military service. The state requested another extension, which the court is considering.
The issue has gained urgency due to the IDF's prolonged engagement in Gaza and on the northern border, which has stretched military resources and highlighted manpower shortages. A landmark 2017 High Court ruling struck down a law exempting haredi men from service, but successive governments have struggled to implement a new framework.
During the hearing, the justices questioned the state's attorney on the government's plan and timeline. A decision from the court is expected in the coming days or weeks, which could have significant political and social ramifications for Prime Minister's governing coalition.
