Recruitment of Haredim in the Israeli Army: An Overview
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have announced plans to issue 7,000 additional recruitment orders for ultra-Orthodox Jews (Haredim) starting next week. This decision comes despite the recent dismissal of former Defense Minister Yoav Galant, who had previously ordered these recruitment measures. The directive follows instructions from Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, emphasizing the legal obligation to recruit yeshiva students.
Current Recruitment Landscape
According to data from the Attorney General's office, approximately 70,000 yeshiva students are of conscription age and have yet to be drafted. The IDF has indicated a pressing need for at least 10,000 soldiers to support ongoing military operations, with 7,500 required for combat roles. In the past recruitment year, only 916 Haredim enlisted, representing just 19% of the military's target. Despite sending 3,000 recruitment orders recently, only 48 Haredim ultimately joined the IDF, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the recruitment strategy.
The Attorney General clarified that the recruitment orders will not be limited to Haredim who do not study, as the Supreme Court has ruled that the state cannot exempt yeshiva students based on their religious studies. This means that out of the 7,000 orders, 4,500 will be directed to all Haredim, including those currently enrolled in yeshivas.
Challenges and Responses
The IDF's recruitment goal for the upcoming draft year is set at 4,800 ultra-Orthodox recruits, a significant increase from previous years where the average was around 1,800. However, this target has been met with skepticism, as historical data suggests that actual enlistment numbers have often fallen short. The Attorney General has expressed doubts about the feasibility of meeting the army's needs while also addressing the principle of equality in conscription.
In response to the announcement, officials from the United Torah Judaism party have criticized the Likud party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to support legislation that would limit Haredi recruitment. They argue that the current measures are a betrayal of promises made to the ultra-Orthodox community, leading to increased protests and demands for amnesty for those penalized for non-compliance with recruitment orders.
As the situation evolves, Netanyahu's administration faces the challenge of balancing military needs with the sensitivities of the Haredi community, especially following the dismissal of Galant, who was perceived as an obstacle to achieving a more favorable recruitment policy for ultra-Orthodox Jews.
