Israeli Communications Minister Urges Officials to Ignore Court Freeze on Haredi Draft Law

Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi called on law enforcement authorities to disregard a High Court order freezing a law to halt the arrest and investigation of haredi draft evaders. The order had suspended implementation of the statute while legal challenges proceed. Karhi's statement directs officials to proceed as if the freeze were not in effect.

Background on the Statute The law in question addresses criminal enforcement against individuals who fail to report for mandatory military service under Israel's conscription system. Haredi communities have historically maintained exemptions or deferrals from service.

The High Court issued the freeze in response to petitions challenging the statute's constitutionality and scope. No timeline for a final ruling has been announced. The minister's call applies to police and investigative bodies responsible for executing arrest warrants and opening cases under the statute.