Netanyahu seeks delay in ultra-Orthodox conscription row

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked Israel's top court Thursday for a new delay on compulsory military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews, an issue that has put his ruling coalition at risk.

Conscription of ultra-Orthodox men has long been a divisive issue in Israeli politics, precipitating a protracted crisis that saw five parliamentary elections in under four years.

Ultra-Orthodox men are facing the possibility of being called up from April 1, as Israel's war against Hamas militants rages in the Gaza Strip.