What’s happening:

A source within Shas, a leading Haredi political party in Israel, has voiced an opinion that Haredi men not engaged in Yeshiva studies represent a potential reservoir of manpower for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The party, a coalition member in the government, believes voluntary service is the way forward.

Why it matters:

Israel’s military is in need of expansion due to increased conflicts and operational circumstances. Maximizing contributions from all sectors of society is essential for national security. With a notable portion of the Haredi population exempt from military service, tapping into the underutilized group could significantly strengthen the IDF. The way this inclusion is handled, free from political pressures and prejudice, is paramount to success and unity.

Between the lines:

The anonymous Shas source calls for multiple conditions that would ensure Haredim can serve in the military without compromising their stringent religious tenets, such as gender segregation and kosher dietary laws. According to the source, the current accommodation efforts by the IDF are lacking, a point that might require addressing to encourage voluntary enlistment.

The controversy:

Proposals to lengthen the mandatory IDF service have sparked debates within the Knesset and the public. Critics decry these as discriminatory, especially since they exclude Haredi men from enlistment. The announcement opened a window for heated exchanges, with Avigdor Liberman, of the Yisrael Beytenu party, condemning these moves as undermining national interests and security.

Counterpoints:

The Movement for Quality of Government in Israel considers the current proposal as unjust. It suggests scrapping unequal exemptions before extending service terms. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich encourages significant defensive contributions from the Haredi community but through dialogue, not coercion, in line with his party’s proven ability to meld religious study with military duty.

Broader implications:

This development in military service policy affects not only Israel’s defense strategy but also the social fabric of the nation. Balancing religious freedom, societal obligations, and national security demands sensitive policy-making engaging all stakeholders with respect and equality.

This story was first published on jpost.com.