A record number of haredi recruits arrived at the IDF induction center at Tel Hashomer on Sunday morning, with hundreds enlisting in the military. The latest wave of haredi enlistment is expected to continue over the next two weeks.
Hundreds of the new recruits are slated to serve in combat roles through specially adapted tracks, including the Netzah Yehuda Battalion, the Hasmonean Brigade, the Hatz Company of the Paratroopers Brigade, and the Negev Unit of the Israel Air Force.
The Shomer Yisrael Association, a national organization dedicated to integrating haredim into the IDF, welcomed the rise in enlistment numbers. The organization said its pre-military academies and haredi hesder yeshivas are helping drive the increase.
Lt. Col. (res.) Yossi Levy, CEO of Shomer Yisrael, said, “We are witnessing a significant leap forward today. The haredi young men arriving at the induction center this morning are proving that it is possible to maintain a strong Torah-based identity while making a direct contribution to Israel’s security on the front lines."
“Our mission is to continue building a framework that will allow them to perform meaningful military service while maintaining their haredi way of life," Levy added.
The induction center was filled with excitement as recruits and their families marked the occasion.
Itamar Reinhold, a graduate of the Nitzotz BaEmunah pre-military academy who is joining the Netzah Yehuda Battalion, explained why he chose a combat role.
“I simply wanted to be part of it," he said. “My brother served in Netzah Yehuda and fought throughout the war in Gaza, and that inspired me."
Shmuel Cohen, who is also joining Netzah Yehuda, said, “It’s very important to me to contribute to the country and be part of the force that protects all of us."
Nachman, who is joining the Hasmonean Brigade, said, “This is what needs to be done now, regardless of whether you’re haredi or not. We all need to step up."
Parents accompanying their sons to the induction center also expressed their support.
Rachel Zeitoun of Petah Tikva, whose son is joining Netzah Yehuda, said, “He was in yeshiva but felt that it wasn’t the right place for him. Learning in yeshiva is difficult, and once he left, it was clear to all of us that he would enlist and contribute."
Rivka Yifrach of Bnei Brak, whose son is joining the Negev Unit of the Israel Air Force, said, “I’m proud of my son. I had some concerns about him joining the army, but we have accepted it with love."