Ultra-Orthodox party says it will disrupt Knesset votes over draft bill

United Torah Judaism announced it would disrupt the legislative agenda in the Knesset after accusing the coalition of failing to advance promised legislation quickly enough. The party linked its action to a bill that would halt arrests of haredi draft evaders.

The measure is set for debate Tuesday in the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. Protesters supporting conscription of ultra-Orthodox men blocked a road in Bnei Brak on June 26, 2026, in response to earlier demonstrations by ultra-Orthodox groups after arrests of draft evaders.

Background on the draft issue The coalition had previously committed to advancing draft-related legislation for haredi parties. United Torah Judaism said the coalition’s pace was insufficient. The party’s announcement follows weeks of public demonstrations both for and against expanded conscription of ultra-Orthodox men.