Israeli Hesder Yeshiva Students Enlist with Strong Faith and Determination Amid Ongoing War

On the day thousands of new recruits arrived at the Tel Hashomer induction base, Hesder Yeshiva students stood out as they enlisted in groups accompanied by parents, rabbis, and friends. These students, who spent two years studying Torah and preparing spiritually, now face military service during a time when Israel remains deeply engaged in war. Channel 7 spoke with a new recruit, identified as A, and his father Dotan, a seasoned reservist, about the significance and emotions surrounding this enlistment.

A shared that this is not the family's first encounter with military service, as his older brother is already serving and his father has been active in the reserves throughout the conflict. Despite this, the excitement remains fresh. Dotan expressed the natural parental concern but also pride in continuing their family’s commitment to defending Israel. When asked for advice, he humorously recommended endurance, saying, "bite your lip, Tik-Tak, until age fifty or fifty-five, then you’re discharged."

A reassured worried parents by emphasizing the strength and readiness of the recruits, crediting their two years in the Hesder Yeshiva for preparing them not only spiritually but also mentally for the challenges ahead. He contrasted this preparation with those who enlist without such grounding, stating, "I come truly ready for the army, ready for the spiritual obstacles, and with God’s help, we will succeed."

Dotan, who also studied in the Hesder program, affirmed its value in producing better soldiers and citizens, highlighting the program’s success over decades in combining Torah study with active service. A noted the added motivation from enlisting alongside his peers, describing their collective spirit as coming "to be the army’s elite unit, giving everything."

The ongoing war has transformed military service from a future prospect into an immediate reality, strengthening A’s resolve to serve. He expressed pride in the army’s efforts and readiness to contribute. Dotan attributed this sense of mission partly to their upbringing but acknowledged that ultimately it depends on the individual’s willingness.

With backpacks on and a mix of parental concern and youthful enthusiasm, these Hesder Yeshiva students embarked on their military journey, driven by faith, responsibility, and a deep sense of duty to the people and state of Israel.