IDF Rejects Majority of Ultra-Orthodox Volunteers Post-October 7 Due to Medical and Eligibility Issues
Since the outbreak of the Iron Swords war on October 7, approximately 4,000 ultra-Orthodox Jewish men over the age of 26 applied to join the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) under a special "Stage B" enlistment track designed for those who had deferred service for religious studies. However, the IDF rejected about 3,300 of these applicants, primarily due to medical unfitness and other eligibility criteria, according to official data presented in April 2024 by the Knesset Research and Information Center.
The "Stage B" program offers a shortened basic training of about two weeks, followed by service mainly in rear-area reserve roles, rather than full combat duty. This track is intended to integrate ultra-Orthodox men into the military in a limited capacity, reflecting their civilian skills and experience. Of the 880 applicants deemed fit, 600 were actually enlisted. Additionally, around 540 ultra-Orthodox men under 26 enlisted for full mandatory service during the same period.
Claims by Knesset member Yaakov Asher that the IDF "sent home" 4,500 ultra-Orthodox volunteers who came forward voluntarily are not fully accurate. While the numbers roughly align with official figures, many applicants sought limited reserve service rather than full active duty. The IDF's rejection reasons include medical issues, security clearances, and mental health evaluations. Asher maintains that the rejections were due to procedural and legal reasons and argues that if the IDF prioritized ultra-Orthodox recruitment as a national strategic goal, it would find ways to enlist more volunteers.
Experts from the Israel Democracy Institute and IDF officials note that the "Stage B" recruits are not suited for combat roles and that the IDF's urgent need is for ultra-Orthodox soldiers in full mandatory service to reduce the burden on reservists. The Chief of Staff in June 2024 emphasized the importance of expanding regular ultra-Orthodox combat units to hold key defense sectors. Legal responses also highlight increased ultra-Orthodox enlistment in combat-support roles and the establishment of new units within the Border Police.
In summary, while a significant number of ultra-Orthodox men have expressed willingness to serve since October 7, most were rejected due to eligibility issues and the limited nature of the "Stage B" service. The IDF continues to focus on recruiting ultra-Orthodox soldiers for full active duty to meet operational needs. Therefore, statements suggesting the army is broadly refusing ultra-Orthodox volunteers are misleading.
