Netanyahu doubles down on ultra-Orthodox enlistment amid coalition tensions
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doubled down on support for ultra-Orthodox enlistment in the IDF during a Thursday visit to the military’s Hasmonean Brigade, after disputes over Haredi draft legislation nearly led to the dissolution of the Knesset earlier this month.
“My ancestors and your ancestors preserved Israel’s heritage through Torah study. But those who do not study Torah must enlist,” Netanyahu said, adding that when they enlist “they must be given the ability to enter as Haredi and leave as Haredi.”
The Hasmonean Brigade is one of several specialized frameworks to accommodate ultra-Orthodox recruits. Earlier this week, the IDF announced a 24% increase in Haredi enlistment between April and May compared to the same period last year.
“The fact that you can study Torah and serve, maintain a religious Haredi lifestyle and serve, hold the sword of David and serve, and also study. This is the very thing that strengthens us more than anything else,” Netanyahu said, praising soldiers serving in the Jordan Valley, where the visit took place.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
