The Largest Recruitment to Haredi Tracks – 537 Soldiers Joined the IDF Ranks

The central enlistment day for the December-January cohort for the dedicated tracks for the Haredi public in the IDF took place today and yesterday (Sunday). This is the largest dedicated enlistment day to date, during which 537 soldiers joined the service, including 230 combat soldiers and 307 combat support soldiers in a wide range of roles, with the enlistment to be completed in the coming days.

The Head of the Manpower Directorate, Major General Dadi Bar-Kalifa, visited the Tel HaShomer enlistment center yesterday (Sunday) and spoke with the new recruits about the significance of combat service and the contribution to the country’s security at this time.

“Thirty years ago, I sat here myself, in the exact same seat you are sitting in, with the same apprehension that accompanies you at the beginning of this new chapter in your lives,” began the Head of Manpower Directorate, Major General Dadi Bar-Kalifa. “You are going to do great things for the security of the people of Israel and the state. We have an opportunity to change and improve, but one thing we will stand by and not compromise on is allowing you to fulfill your duty to defend the country while preserving your religious world and the spirit of Halakha. The operational need requires us to fill the ranks, you are pioneers, and many will follow you.”

The data indicates the IDF’s ongoing effort to expand enlistment from the Haredi public, including by expanding existing tracks, establishing new dedicated frameworks, holding exposure and information conferences, and making adjustments in training and during service. The new soldiers were assigned to various units that allow for meaningful service while fully maintaining their lifestyle.