First Haredi Pre-Military Academy Opens in Jordan Valley

Minister of Settlement and National Missions Orit Strock visited the "Maskiot" pre-military academy in the northern Jordan Valley this week. The academy, operated by the "Netzach" organization and managed by Alon Benyahu, is the first of its kind for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) young men. Currently, approximately 35 first-year students and 10 second-year students, both religious and Haredi, are enrolled. The curriculum combines Torah studies, physical and field training, values education, and mental preparation for significant military service.

The academy's unique aspect lies in its integration of different populations and its distinctive location in the Jordan Valley. Due to the success of the first cohort, plans are underway to open an additional Haredi academy next year as part of the Eastern Axis program led by Minister Strock. Furthermore, construction is set to begin in the coming weeks for a Haredi "Hesder" yeshiva in the Jordan Valley.

Minister Strock stated that the pre-military academy framework is the most effective tool for integrating the Haredi community into the IDF, citing their proven ability to lead students to meaningful service and officer positions while strengthening their values and character. She expressed her intention to expand the Haredi presence in these academies, emphasizing their role in strengthening the borders, particularly along the Eastern Axis, in addition to the Haredi Hesder yeshivas being established.

Yossi Levi, CEO of the "Netzach" organization and the National Union for Haredi Service "Shomer Yisrael," expressed excitement about expanding the "Netzach" academy network with the seventh Haredi pre-military academy. He highlighted that establishing a Haredi academy specifically in the Jordan Valley is integral to the students' religious, personal, and values-based journey towards military service and future building. Levi noted that Minister Strock's visit reinforces this vision and that the growing demand demonstrates this path offers new opportunities for many Haredi youth seeking direction after completing their yeshiva studies.