News for Orna Barbivai On Israel's 66th, Speeches Stress Unity, DiversityKnesset Speaker urges Israelis to embrace peers from all walks of life; ceremony places special focus on women. IDF Weighs Shorter Service for Non-Combat SoldiersSpecial committee to examine the possibility of determining length of military service by importance of position. Motivation Among IDF Recruits Near All-Time HighThe vast majority of recruits in the IDF November draft have expressed a desire to become members of combat units. Each Ethiopian Jewish Soldier will have a MentorPersonnel Branch is planning a project to help Ethiopian soldiers in their initial steps in IDF. Soldiers from 29 Countries Complete Hebrew CourseThree of four participants in special course are lone soldiers, 47% will go on to serve in field and combat units. Female Draft-Dodgers Use Religion as ExcuseIDF manpower chief Orna Barbivai says too many women who say they are religious are allowed to opt out of the IDF. IDF Chief of Staff Rules: Men Must AttendIDF Chief of Staff Benny Ganz rules no soldier will be exempt from official military ceremonies, even if a woman is singing. Israel's Immigrant VolunteersIDF manpower director Maj. Gen. Orna Barbibai hailed the impressive showing of immigrant volunteers; chided native Israelis. IDF Data: Number of Israelis who Enlist DecliningThe number of Israelis who enlist in the army is declining. By 2020, less than 60% will enlist, statistics show. |
