Ultra-Orthodox Jewish families, increasingly visible across Israel, have seen their numbers and political influence soar. As debates flare around compulsory military service, the tension between religious doctrine and civic responsibility highlights the broader evolution of Israel’s national identity.

Donald Trump made a public appeal to Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, urging him to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu, who was indicted in 2019 on three separate charges, faces allegations that include receiving nearly 700,000 shekels. Trump’s statement has put renewed focus on the Israeli leader’s legal challenges.