IDF Advisor Highlights Rapid Professional Growth of Ultra-Orthodox Soldiers in Hachshara Brigade

Brigadier General Avinoam Emuna, the IDF Chief of Staff's advisor on ultra-Orthodox affairs and the founding commander of the Hachshara Brigade, praised the exceptional qualities of ultra-Orthodox soldiers at the closing event of the seventh Nehalim conference held in cooperation with the Gesher organization. Emuna emphasized that despite initial physical challenges, these soldiers quickly reach the highest professional levels due to their seriousness, thoroughness, and commitment.

Emuna revealed that the Hachshara Brigade recently participated for the first time in a comprehensive IDF infantry brigade evaluation and achieved the best results among all brigades, 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.

Addressing the broader integration of ultra-Orthodox soldiers in the IDF, Emuna acknowledged that for years the state created barriers to their enlistment by failing to provide suitable frameworks and not always fulfilling commitments. He highlighted that the establishment of the Hachshara Brigade has led to significant adaptations within the IDF to accommodate ultra-Orthodox soldiers, enabling them to serve while maintaining their religious lifestyle.

Emuna stressed the importance of creating service tracks that allow ultra-Orthodox soldiers to enlist with confidence that their way of life will be respected. He noted the strong motivation within the ultra-Orthodox community to join the military and connect with Israeli society while preserving their religious observance.

Rabbi Shmuel Lorentz, head of Yeshivat Nehalim, stated that the conference aims to foster respectful dialogue and understanding between the ultra-Orthodox and Religious Zionist communities, moving beyond slogans and mutual demonization. Ilan Galdor, CEO of Gesher, added that in these challenging times, creating spaces for deep listening and genuine discussion is crucial to advancing mutual respect and addressing societal issues in Israel.