IDF Advisor Praises Ultra-Orthodox Soldiers’ Rapid Professional Growth and Commitment

Brigadier General Avinoam Emuna, the IDF Chief of Staff's advisor on ultra-Orthodox affairs and the founding commander of the Hachshara Hachashmonaim Brigade, spoke at the closing event of the seventh Nehalim Conference on Jewish Thought. The conference, held in collaboration with the Gesher organization and Yeshivat Nehalim, focused on the integration of ultra-Orthodox soldiers in the Israeli military. Emuna highlighted the exceptional personal qualities of ultra-Orthodox soldiers, noting their seriousness, thoroughness, and commitment, which enable them to reach high professional standards in a short time despite initially lower physical fitness.

Emuna revealed that the Hachshara Hachashmonaim Brigade recently achieved the best results among all IDF infantry brigades in a comprehensive evaluation, despite having less training time. He attributed this success to the unique human qualities and cultural values within the ultra-Orthodox community, including respect for commanders and a strong drive for excellence. Emuna also discussed the historical barriers the state created that discouraged ultra-Orthodox enlistment and emphasized that the brigade's establishment has led to broader adaptations within the IDF to accommodate ultra-Orthodox soldiers' needs.

He stressed the importance of creating service frameworks that allow ultra-Orthodox soldiers to maintain their religious lifestyle while serving, aiming for a reality where they can enlist confidently knowing their way of life will be respected. Rabbi Shmuel Lorentz, head of Yeshivat Nehalim, and Ilan Galdor, CEO of Gesher, both underscored the conference’s goal of fostering respectful dialogue and understanding between the ultra-Orthodox and religious Zionist communities amid societal tensions. They emphasized the need for open, honest discussion to bridge divides and promote coexistence based on mutual respect and responsibility.