An Ultra-Orthodox Jew, who is largely exempt from military service, holds a placard while protesting with others against conscription by blocking a highway near the centre of the Israeli city of Bnei Brak on April 28, 2026. Israel's Supreme Court on April 26 ordered the state to cut financial benefits to ultra-Orthodox Jews who refuse to answer conscription call-ups. There is a long-standing exemption from compulsory national service for ultra-Orthodox men who engage in full-time religious study, which dates back to Israel's founding in 1948. (Photo by Jack GUEZ / AFP via Getty Images) /