Israeli opposition figures have welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling that ultra-Orthodox men must be drafted into the military, Al Jazeera reports.

Yair Golan, who heads the Israeli Labour Party, praised the ruling as a “just” move that upholds the responsibilities of all citizens.

“The duty of military and civilian service must be applied to every Israeli regardless of race, religion and gender,” said Golan.

Avigdor Lieberman, of the right-wing Yisrael Beiteinu party, said it was time for the “historic” change to bring much-needed manpower to the army during the offensive on Gaza.