Amidst the ongoing debates over the integration of Haredim (ultra-Orthodox) into the IDF, dozens of young Haredi men reported this week to the Tel HaShomer draft office. They will join combat tracks such as the Netzah Yehuda Battalion in the Kfir Brigade, the Hashmonaim Brigade, the Negev unit, the Tomer Company in Givati, the Hetz Company in the Paratroopers, and the Border Police.
“Our time has come”
Yehoyada Cohen, enlisting in the Hashmonaim Brigade, said: “Our time has come. There is progress in that we are given a spiritual framework suited for Haredim. Soldiers before us gave their all to enlist, and that’s why I also decided to join. I hope the IDF will allow us to defend the country while maintaining our Haredi way of life.”
His father, David Cohen, added: “One who learns Torah must learn Torah. But one who has completed that stage should take part in the mitzvah. It is good that the army created a framework that enables proper absorption for those who want to serve while keeping Torah and mitzvot in a Haredi lifestyle. As parents, we want to believe that our sons will be protected within this framework that promised to safeguard their way of life.”
“Excited to be a combat soldier in the IDF”
David, 19, a graduate of the pre-army Haredi preparatory program Nitzotz Be’emunah who enlisted in Netzah Yehuda, shared: “For the past two years I was no longer studying in yeshiva, and I decided the time had come to contribute my part. I am excited to be a combat soldier in the IDF and to give of myself for the people of Israel.”
The Shomer Israel organization, which oversees Haredi enlistment tracks in the IDF, praised the new soldiers: “We are proud of every recruit who chooses to combine a life of Torah and mitzvot with contributing to Israel’s security. They prove it is possible to be a devout Haredi and also a front-line soldier. We will continue to accompany and support them throughout their service and after their release into Israeli society.”
Less visible, but no less vital
Alongside these young men who chose a nontraditional path of military service, the IDF this week also honored those whose contribution is less visible but no less vital: the wives and mothers who keep family life running while their husbands serve.
On the eve of the new school year, the IDF released a special song dedicated to the women of active-duty and reserve soldiers — those who remain at home with the children, shoulder daily responsibilities, and continue to be “on call” in their own way. Written by Racheli Moskowitz, herself the wife of a soldier, and composed and performed by reservist El’natan Shalom, the song is accompanied by a video featuring families of combat and career soldiers. Its words express gratitude for the quiet heroism of these women and the sacrifice that often goes unrecognized.
“In routine and in emergency – together we prevail with faith”
The production, initiated by the IDF’s Military Rabbinate, involved dozens of volunteers — musicians, directors, editors, and the reserve families themselves. The video closes with a clear message: “In routine and in emergency – together we prevail with faith.”
The IDF and Israeli society used the song to send a message of appreciation: “A good and blessed year — this song is yours.”
