President Herzog Honors Haredi Soldiers by Reading Lamentations at Training Base

On the eve of Tisha B'Av, Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited the training base of the Hachshmonaim Brigade, a unit composed of Haredi soldiers. During the visit, Herzog read the Book of Lamentations with the soldiers to mark the day of mourning for the destruction of the Temple. The visit began with a detailed briefing from the brigade commander, Colonel Shamar Raviv, about the unit's activities in both routine and emergency situations.

President Herzog met with the soldiers to hear about their service routines and the unique challenges they face as Haredi soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces. He expressed gratitude for their dedication and commitment to the country's security. Herzog highlighted the connection between the destruction commemorated on Tisha B'Av and the current reality, emphasizing the importance of love and unity over baseless hatred.

Addressing the value of Torah study alongside military service, Herzog called it a "great privilege" to continue the tradition of Torah learning, which has historically protected the Jewish people. He acknowledged the necessity of defending the nation by wearing the uniform and fighting enemies. Herzog praised the remarkable integration of serving in the IDF while maintaining a Haredi lifestyle as a significant achievement both for the military and the individual soldiers.

This visit sends a strong message of recognition and support to Haredi soldiers amid ongoing societal pressures regarding military conscription within the Haredi community.