Haredi Youth: A Force That Could Build or Destroy Israel

Bezalel Cohen, a prominent figure in the state-religious Haredi stream, argues that Israel is neglecting the potential of approximately 40% of the Haredi population who lean towards modernity. He believes this segment, which he prefers to call "state-aligned" rather than "modern Haredi," could significantly contribute to the nation's growth. Cohen, a founder of educational and research institutions, criticizes the current Haredi leadership for steering the community towards ruin, citing a lack of integration into the Zionist narrative even after the October 7th attacks. He attributes this resistance to change to the vested interests of the rabbinical and political leadership, and the reluctance of young Haredim to challenge the established order.

Cohen advocates for a "Torah with 'derech eretz'" approach, integrating religious study with practical, rational, and ethical behavior, including democratic values. He acknowledges the historical complexities of Haredi-Zionist relations, noting that many prominent rabbis in the past were supportive of Zionism. However, he believes the anti-Zionist stance, particularly influenced by figures like Rabbi Brisk and the Chazon Ish, eventually prevailed. Cohen suggests that Ben-Gurion's "melting pot" approach to state-building inadvertently created an existential threat for the Haredi community, leading to their opposition to national institutions like the army.

He expresses concern about the growing trend of Haredim adopting faith-based views of the state, which he finds dangerous, preferring a model similar to how Haredim integrate into societies like the US or UK as loyal citizens. Cohen also critiques the current political landscape, warning against anarchy and praising democracy as a preferable system, even if imperfect. He criticizes figures like Ben-Gvir, whom he labels an anarchist for his role in law enforcement, and notes the influence of media outlets like Channel 14 and personalities like Yinon Magal on some Haredi youth.

Cohen highlights systemic issues within the Haredi community, including a lack of accountability and the perpetuation of inequality, often exacerbated by the community's autonomy within the state. He points to the economic disparity, where capital holders dictate terms rather than those who need to work, creating a dependent "Haredi proletariat." He argues that the state's funding of Haredi educational institutions, channeled through intermediaries, creates an elite that exploits individuals and hinders direct access to state resources. Cohen advocates for dismantling this mediation mechanism to empower individuals and foster genuine change.

The state-religious Haredi educational system, which includes approximately 10% of Haredi children, is seen as a key attempt at integration. However, Cohen notes challenges such as poor organizational culture and discrimination in some institutions, emphasizing the need for state intervention to enforce standards. A significant gap exists in post-elementary education, forcing graduates back into the traditional Haredi system due to high tuition fees. Cohen calls for a comprehensive 12-year educational plan to support the state-aligned Haredi community and provide a viable alternative.

Regarding new Haredi political parties, Cohen is skeptical of their ability to offer a genuine alternative, particularly to the youth. He criticizes slogans that link military service to Torah study as unoriginal and questions the premise of exemption based on study. Cohen believes a responsible Haredi leadership is needed to engage with the state, advocating for minimal autonomy that allows individuals to live according to their beliefs. He calls for a serious dialogue between Haredi and secular leaders, emphasizing the need for gratitude and an apology from the Haredi community for past deceptions regarding draft exemptions, and for the state to provide more support for state-aligned Haredi education, including post-secondary options, to foster independent leadership.