The Challenge of Incorporating the Ultra-Orthodox in National Defense

In a time when Israel faces security challenges on multiple fronts, a debate intensifies around the Sephardi Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef’s recent comments regarding the potential conscription of ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community members into the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The discussion brings to foreground longstanding issues regarding duty, faith, and national responsibility.

Why It Matters

This situation matters profoundly as it reflects on the internal social dynamics of Israel, the challenges of maintaining a unified front in defense matters, and the delicate balance between religious principles and national obligations. It opens a critical dialogue on how Israel, as a nation, balances the necessity of defense with the preservation of religious life, the inclusion of diverse communities in national defense, and potential repercussions of alienating the Haredi sector.

The Evolution of the Exemption Law

Since Israel’s establishment, there has been an exemption for the Haredi community from IDF conscription to allow members to continue their religious studies uninterrupted. Despite Israel’s evolving needs and substantial growth of the Haredi population, this legislation remains unchanged. The exemption, intended as a measure for a small population, now covers a significant societal segment, raising questions about equitable national duty fulfillment. This situation encompasses debates within the Knesset and has led to civil unrest whenever reform is suggested.

Voluntary Service and Commendable Contributions

A not insignificant portion of the ultra-Orthodox community has voluntarily joined their fellow Israelis in the military, setting an important precedent of unity and shared commitment to national security. These individuals bridge the gap between religious devotion and the call to arms, underscoring the collective responsibility towards Israel’s defense.

Safety Abroad – A Misconceived Notion?

In response to the prospect of conscription, Rabbi Yosef’s musings on mass emigration invite critical examination. The consideration overlooks the tangible escalation of global anti-Semitism, where violence against Jews is becoming alarmingly prevalent. Hence, fleeing due to IDF service concerns undermines both the safety and unity of Israel. It disregards the harsh realities Jews face worldwide, ironically implying that safety might be found elsewhere, contradicting the core reason for Israel’s founding – a secure homeland for the Jewish people.

Israel’s Self-Reliance and Jewish Defense

The reflexive defense against threats and the steady courage of serving in the armed forces are the hallmarks of Israeli resilience. Beyond the boundaries of religious studies, military service represents a tangible defense mechanism, protecting families, communities, and the nation at large. Israel thrives on its ability to safeguard its existence against adversaries, a privilege and duty shared by all its citizens, regardless of religious orientation.

The Necessity of Action Beyond Faith

The sentiment that studying Torah is a form of defense, while spiritually valuable, must also coincide with the practical need for physical defense. A poignant reminder parallels the divine help with human effort, advocating that miraculous assistance requires a foundation in reality, just as victories necessitate ready and able defenders in their commissions.

Conclusion

The dialogue surrounding the Haredi community’s conscription into the IDF reveals the complex intersection of faith, identity, and national duty. As Israel navigates these tumultuous issues, the path forward requires honoring the foundational blocks of security and preservation of faith, showing that truly, these objectives can coexist to the benefit and harmony of the entire nation.

This story was first published on jpost.com.