Defense Minister Israel Katz declares at an ultra-Orthodox Purim event that 'The world of Jewish Torah can never be harmed' in reference to the government's work on Haredi conscription legislation. The dispute over ultra-Orthodox military service is a longstanding and contentious issue in Israel. The Haredi religious and political leadership strongly opposes drafting young men who study in Yeshivas and have previously been exempt. Recent High Court rulings and manpower shortages have increased public pressure to address the issue.