What’s Happening
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have welcomed their first group of ultra-Orthodox soldiers to serve as part of the newly established Hasmonean Brigade. Fifty soldiers have already begun their service, marking a key step forward in integrating the Haredi community into regular IDF service.
Why It Matters
This initiative stands as a significant milestone for the IDF as Israel navigates ongoing personnel shortages due to prolonged military engagements. By widening their recruitment to include more ultra-Orthodox men, the IDF aims to bolster the number of available troops while accommodating the unique lifestyle requirements of the Haredi community.
The Backstory
Service in the military by the ultra-Orthodox community has long been a contentious topic in Israel. Decades of judiciary debates and government discussions have failed to secure a satisfying resolution on exemptions and enlistments. Former High Court rulings have ruled against blanket exemptions for Haredi students, further intensifying the debate.
The Path Forward
Beyond the first batch of 50 recruits, another 100 Haredi men, who completed preliminary training under the Shlav Bet program, are set for deeper engagements through six months of additional combat training. Meanwhile, the IDF looks forward to integrating better structural and policy-based commitments, aiming for the participation of around 10,000 more ultra-Orthodox service members each year.
Efforts to Accommodate
The IDF has renovated training facilities to suit the Haredi recruits’ lifestyle requirements, such as allowing “Sabbath clothing” and ensuring regular prayers and Torah study. Notably, soldiers will use “kosher” phones limited in connectivity to suit their faith-driven preferences.
The Challenge
Efforts are not without their challenges. Resistance among the ultra-Orthodox community persists, fueled by concerns over secularization. However, broadening their participation demonstrates Israel’s ongoing innovation in strategic military readiness amid complex demographic, religious, and social dimensions.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.