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Eida Haredit is an anti-Zionist ultra-Orthodox umbrella group. It demonstrated against drafting Haredim. Posters announced it in advance declaring "At a time of religious persecution and decrees, no person dare stay home."
Moderate Haredim presented its own proposal to replace the Tal Law. It exempts yeshiva students subject to specific conditions. At age 22, they could choose between one-year civil service or a shortened 16-month military obligation and future reserve duty.
The existing law failed to boost ultra-Orthodox enlistments. Only a few dozen joined Israel's army. In February 2012, the High Court of Justice ruled it unconstitutional. It expires in August. Debate centers on replacing it.
Moderate Haredim believe "military service is critical to preserving the state, and civilian service is crucial to sustaining society.""Anyone who isn't studying Torah must serve. Such service must be compensated and non-service must carry a price."
In early July, talks produced political deadlock. On July 11, Mofaz convened Kadima members. Policy going forward was discussed. Likud Deputy Prime Minister Moshe Ya'alon and Kadima MK Yohanan Plesner disagreed strongly.
Mofaz told party members "(w)e are at a crucial moment, and if we do not introduce a bill in the government meeting we will not be able to maintain this partnership."
On July 9, Ya'alon and Plesner planned a new bill introduction. Disagreement remained over ultra-Orthodox men draft regulations. Netanyahu said he'll only support a new measure if it applies to all Israeli citizens. It must include Haredim and Arab citizens, he said.
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