The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) marked a historic milestone on Sunday with the enlistment of the first ultra-Orthodox recruits to the newly established Hasmonean Brigade. By the end of the day, approximately 150 soldiers had signed up, including about 50 who began their service as regular soldiers. This initiative aims to integrate Haredi men—a group historically exempt from military service—into the IDF without compromising their strict religious lifestyle.
Over the years, ultra-Orthodox Jews have been largely absent from the military, often due to the exemptions granted for full-time study at yeshivas. This change has come about due to pressures arising from operational needs, including the political pressure fueled by the Supreme Court's ruling earlier this year, which deemed the continued exemption for ultra-Orthodox men discriminatory. The establishment of the Hasmonean Brigade not only responds to these legal requirements but also seeks to bridge the divide between ultra-Orthodox communities and national service.
The IDF's preparation for the Hasmonean Brigade involved extensive planning. This included accommodating the unique needs of ultra-Orthodox recruits, ensuring religious customs related to food and living arrangements were respected. Maj.-Gen. Amir Baram, popularizing the new brigade during his visit last week, expressed excitement about this integration, stating, "Thanks to you, we have had a great opportunity... there is no contradiction between pious, ultra-Orthodox Judaism, and fighting, courage, and battle. This is currently a deep operational and social need."
For the new recruits, this occasion was filled with enthusiasm and nervousness alike. Among them was Yaakov, who shared, "I always thought about enlisting, but until two months ago, I was planning to get an exemption. When I was offered the Hashmonaim, I was thrilled." Another recruit, Uriel Cohen from Bnei Barak, highlighted changes within his community, stating, "Not all ultra-Orthodox rabbis oppose military enlistment... I decided, ‘Alright, I’m doing this.’" Their experiences reflect the shifting mindset within parts of the ultra-Orthodox community as they feel more strongly about national responsibilities.
Eliyahu Brodner from Beit Shemesh revealed how the war influenced his decision to enlist. "After October 7, I wanted to enlist...I didn’t feel right about it – they’re sacrificing their lives to protect me," he noted, showing how current events have galvanized many to rethink their positions on military service. He also mentioned the support he received from his rabbis as pivotal to his decision, showcasing the importance of community approval for those considering enlistment.
The establishment of the Hasmonean Brigade signals not only the IDF’s response to military needs but also marks progress toward greater social integration. It aims to allow ultr-Orthodox recruits to maintain traditional practices, including the allowance for “Sabbath clothes” on Saturdays and daily Torah study. This effort seeks to nurture a sense of belonging within the military framework.
At the same time, the broader societal and political push surrounding this development is significant. Yuli Edelstein, chairman of the legislative defense committee, emphasized the need to expand recruitment bases to alleviate pressures on reservists, hinting at the growing acceptance among some political factions. Conversely, resistance from within ultra-Orthodox leadership remains, as many continue to advocate for exemption laws, fearing loss of religious identity among recruits.
This change has come along with visible dissent among the ultra-Orthodox community, with protests against military service being commonplace. Reports indicate discontent and tension, as seen when the IDF issued arrest warrants for those who did not comply with the draft orders. The underlying concern among many Haredi Jews is the potential for soldiers to be secularized, challenging decades of community norms around religious life.
The IDF's new brigade is expected to grow significantly, with plans for it to eventually comprise 3,000 fighters, including both conscripts and reservists. This recruitment drive forms part of broader military reforms aimed at incorporating approximately 10,000 additional soldiers annually to meet present operational requirements. Notably, the brigade aims to serve as a model of religious compliance within military ranks.
Wiith Haredi communities now more visible in military roles, this could herald changes not just within the ranks of the IDF but also within wider Israeli society. If successful, these initiatives might lead to enhanced cooperation among disparate segments of the population, alleviating long-standing tensions.
Looking forward, the enthusiasm for division's establishment is palpable among the new recruits. Nathan Adler from Lod expressed his eagerness for the future, stating, "I know there’s a lot of talk about the brigade, and I hope we live up to expectations." This sentiment encapsulates the hope for successful integration and the courage it takes for ultra-Orthodox men to step outside traditional paths as they embrace national service.