Debate Intensifies Over Haredi Draft into Israeli Military

A conference titled "Decisive Moment: Democracy and Society," organized by ynet and Yediot Ahronot in collaboration with the Israel Democracy Institute, addressed the contentious issue of drafting Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the IDF. The discussion focused on finding a mutually agreeable model for conscription that respects the unique characteristics of Haredi society while addressing the military's growing need for personnel.

Dr. Tehila Elitzur, a proponent of shared service, countered concerns that military service poses spiritual challenges for religious and Haredi individuals. She argued that the military has significantly improved its accommodations for religious observance since her own service and that the primary issue is now the urgent security need. "We are in a life-threatening situation and you shall not stand idly by your brother's blood, and I want to say we don't have 30 years to wait," she stated, emphasizing that the Haredi leadership had three years since the previous conscription law was debated to foster a desire for enlistment among those not engaged in full-time Torah study.

Elitzur highlighted the heavy price paid by families during the recent conflict, stating, "The wound that has opened and do not ignore it is so great for us." She asserted that Israel cannot sustain its military strength if it continues to grant exemptions based on "Torah study is his craft" and that the current situation is unsustainable. She also mentioned the recent launch of the "Covenant of Zionist Service," aiming for broader integration, but stressed that her group cannot wait for full Haredi consensus due to time constraints.

Conversely, Israel Cohen, a political commentator and Haredi affairs expert, warned that imposing conscription could deepen societal divisions. He advocated for dialogue and suggested a model where those dedicated to Torah study could continue, while others would enlist. Cohen noted internal developments within Haredi society that might allow for integration into specialized units. He stressed the importance of unity and mutual respect, drawing lessons from the divisions that preceded October 7th.

Attorney Shlomit Rabiqzi Tor-Paz, from the Israel Democracy Institute, proposed a universal service obligation and a shift in state incentives. She argued that the current Haredi societal structure is largely a product of past state policies. While supporting limited deferments for dedicated scholars, she insisted that others should be significantly integrated into service, particularly given the shortage of combat soldiers. She suggested a temporary halt to arrests for draft evasion, coupled with long-term sanctions like the denial of benefits for non-compliance, framing non-enlistment as being against the law.

An exchange occurred regarding the age of enlistment and its conflict with Haredi marriage customs, with Cohen questioning the feasibility of changing deeply ingrained societal norms. Tor-Paz responded that the goal is not to alter Haredi identity but to meet security needs, preventing another October 7th. She concluded by stating that no segment of Israeli society should be exempt from service and that the IDF, not rabbis, should determine eligibility, with individuals choosing between service and foregoing benefits.