The story behind the picture

IDF soldiers walk by ultra-Orthodox Jews during a massive protest attended by hundreds of thousands from the ultra-Orthodox community, against plans to introduce compulsory military service.

Carrying placards calling to rise up for the “Torah of Moshe” and declaring they would never submit to a Knesset bill that would dramatically increase IDF service among the ultra-Orthodox communities, protesters have created a sea of black and white near the central bus station in the capital.

Many are wearing sackcloth, symbolizing mourning for the creation of the law, following decades during which the ultra-Orthodox were able to claim an exemption from army service.

Photo © Eddie Gerald