A report in the Hebrew-language Haaretz newspaper says the IDF Chief Rabbi is under fire for having told a conference two weeks ago that he feels women should not serve in the army. Opposition MKs responded by calling for his dismissal or reprimand.

The State itself recognizes the general incompatibility of religious women serving in the army by granting them an automatic military exemption if they request it on religious grounds. Many of them choose to volunteer for a year or more of national service instead.