Photo Gallery The Power of the Orthodox in Israel

Most Israelis are secular, as is the country's government. Still, Orthodox Jews wield tremendous political power in Israel.
1 / 9

Jerusalem may get all the attention. But it is Tel Aviv where young Israelis want to be. Here, the annual Love Parade on the beach.

Foto: AP
2 / 9

Thousands of ultra-orthodox Jews live in the Mea Shearim neighborhood of Jerusalem. Here, a group celebrates the holiday of Purim on Monday. The ultra-orthodox in Israel wield tremendous political power.

Foto: AP
3 / 9

The country is officially secular, but there is a constant tension between orthodox Jews and the government. Here, ultra-orthodox youths blow on rams' horns to ward off the Iranian nuclear threat.

Foto: REUTERS
4 / 9

The Israeli settlements have been a constant source of tension for the government. Many are set up by orthodox Jews seeking to reclaim all of "Israel," which some feel also includes the Palestinian Territories.

Foto: AFP
5 / 9

In Tel Aviv, most Isrealis are more interested in spending sunny days at the beach than in heading to the synagogue.

Foto: AP
6 / 9

An ultra-Orthodox Jew prays on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem's Old City.

Foto: AP
7 / 9

The Western Wall in Jerusalem is one of the holiest places in Judaism.

Foto: REUTERS
8 / 9

Purim, secular style. Here, a couple take part in a parade through Tel Aviv on Sunday.

Foto: AFP
9 / 9

When it came time to clear settlements out of the Gaza Strip in 2005, it pitted Israeli against Israeli.

Foto: AFP