Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, visited the Hasmonean Brigade’s training base on Sunday, commending its soldiers for their groundbreaking role in integrating the Haredi community into the armed forces.
During his visit to the Tevez base in the Jordan Valley, Zamir reviewed the brigade’s training program, which is tailored to accommodate the needs of Haredi recruits. He was joined by Maj. Gen. Nadav Lotan, commander of the IDF Ground Forces; Maj. Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa, head of the Personnel Directorate; Col. A., commander of the Hasmonean Brigade; and other senior officers.
Addressing the soldiers, Zamir emphasized the significance of their service, saying that they should be proud of their integration into the IDF, and that their families and communities should be proud of it as well. He encouraged them to see themselves as pioneers and trailblazers, leading the way.
Zamir said the brigade’s soldiers are a testament to the compatibility between an ultra-Orthodox lifestyle and military service, assuring them that anyone who enlists as Haredi will remain Haredi, and that they are proof that there is no contradiction between a Haredi lifestyle and serving in the IDF.
The chief of staff also spoke about the brigade’s operational contributions, noting its involvement in ongoing missions in the Gaza Strip and referencing IDF activities in Iran, Lebanon and Syria.
He praised the soldiers’ perseverance and spirit, saying that the IDF is doing everything to enable them to combine the world of Torah and study with the world of military service. He also expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude, saying he believes they embody the spirit of the people.
Zamir concluded by encouraging the soldiers to take pride in their service and to view themselves as leaders for future generations of Haredi recruits.
54,000 draft orders
The IDF announced on June 5 that it will begin issuing enlistment summonses to thousands of Haredi men whose exemption as yeshivah students is no longer valid following the expiration of the previous law. The process is set to roll out in several phases throughout July, with a total of 54,000 orders expected to be sent.
Enlistment appointments at recruitment offices will be scheduled over the course of the 2025-26 draft year (ending on June 30, 2026). The IDF said it will prioritize candidates with high potential for combat and combat support roles to address pressing operational needs.
Additionally, the military plans to step up enforcement against draft evasion and desertion across all sectors.
The IDF reaffirmed its commitment to expanding Haredi enlistment while respecting the community’s lifestyle, and said it is developing new programs to support its members’ integration into military service.
