The Ultra-Orthodox community of Israel is generally exempt from compulsory military service. Over the years, the state has tried to change this. These attempts have largely failed, in part because the country failed to pass a law that would regulate their service.
Yanki Farber, a Haredi journalist from the city of Bnei Brak, central Israel, is not a typical representative of the Ultra-Orthodox community, which currently stands at 1.25 million people, or roughly 12.5% of the population.
When he was 18, Farber enrolled into the IDF, and after his release around three years later, he has on occasion been called up to the reserves. When the events of October 7, 2023 took place - with Hamas militants launching a deadly attack on southern Israeli communities - he put on his military uniform again and went to serve.
But Farber is an exception, not the rule.
Historically, Ultra-Orthodox Jews, who were a minority when the State of Israel was established in 1948, received exemptions from military service. Back then, it was agreed that they would serve the state by praying, even though some did enroll in the IDF, especially in times of war and in cities that were attacked by Arab armies.
In the 1990s, when their population started growing, Israel tried to encourage them to serve, but despite their efforts, the IDF only managed to recruit 31 individuals in 1999.
Comment: In yet another blow to France, the new president has apparently told France to leave Senegal.
It might be too early to say whether the above intentions materialize, but it is clear that France has got some hurdles ahead of itself if it is to maintain any interests in Africa.
Senegal is a country of 18 million people and covers 196.722 km2 (95.955 sq. miles).