Chabad Students Detained Upon Return to Israel After Year Abroad
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
The detentions are due to draft evasion, as special arrangements for the "Kבוצה" program were canceled due to the lack of a conscription law for yeshiva students. Activists criticized the arrests, calling them unjust, while the IDF stated they are enforcing the law equally on all individuals obligated to enlist.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- The students participated in the "Kבוצה" program, a year-long study period at the Chabad World Center.
- The detentions occurred because special IDF arrangements for the program were canceled due to the absence of a conscription law.
- Activists criticized the arrests, calling them unjust, especially before an election.
- The IDF confirmed the students are obligated to enlist and will be judged according to the law.
The students participated in the "Kבוצה" program, a significant year-long study period at the Chabad World Center in New York, following their completion of yeshiva studies in Israel. This program, established in 1962, involves over 500 students annually who dedicate themselves to studying Torah and Chabad philosophy, often living in basic conditions and engaging in outreach activities.
Historically, the IDF recognized the "Kבוצה" program, with special arrangements allowing students to study abroad for a year before returning to Israel for further studies. However, these arrangements were automatically canceled due to the absence of a conscription law that regulates the status of yeshiva students. This has led to students being arrested upon arrival for being considered draft dodgers.
Activists expressed frustration over the detentions, particularly occurring shortly before an election. They argued that it is unjust to arrest students whose entire focus for the past year has been religious study, especially given the high rate of enlistment among Chabad "Abarim" (married men who have completed their studies). The students had received initial notices before traveling but were not classified as "uncooperative," allowing them to depart as no arrest or exit-ban orders were in place.
The Military Police stated that they are actively enforcing the Security Service Law at all border crossings in coordination with immigration authorities. They confirmed that the individuals detained are obligated to enlist and will be judged according to the law, emphasizing a commitment to equal enforcement and fulfillment of service duties.
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