Jerusalem Religious Women Demonstrate Against Compulsory Service

An unprecedented demonstration of about 600 religious women of all ages took place today in front of Parliament in protest against the National Service Bill which provides for compulsory service of religious women in immigrant work villages and social welfare institutions if they are released from military service because of religious convictions. The bill has been prepared by the Israel Cabinet for submission to Parliament.

Some of the women tried to enter the building but were blocked off by the police. The policemen received strict orders not to use force against the demonstrators but to disperse them quietly. Fire hoses were brought up by the police, but were not used because the demonstration petered out after an hour of shouting by the women.

During the demonstration, several leaders of the Orthodox Agudath Israel organization asked the presidium of Parliament to receive a small delegation of the women. However, the members of the presidium pointed out that no delegation could be received while Parliament is in session. The presidium also insisted that the demonstrators should first disperse, after which a decision would be taken as to whether a delegation should be received.

While stormy scenes took place outside Parliament, there were heated debates in the lobby of the building between religious and non-religious deputies. It is understood that one of the main objections to the bill raised by religious leaders is the procedure of the medical examination which the women have to undergo prior to being inducted into the national service. Another objection is that the bill may open the door to the recruitment of religious girls for any task, either civilian or military.

Despite the sharp discrepancies between the religious and non-religious groups in Parliament, no Cabinet crisis is expected over the National Service Bill, it was indicated today by leaders of various parties. The leaders of the General Zionists made it clear that they do not intend to resign from the Cabinet over the issue. The Orthodox laborites indicated that they do not think the present moment appropriate for forcing a cabinet crisis.