Ultra-Orthodox Man and Reservist Soldier Discuss Unequal Burden of Military Service

Two individuals, one an ultra-Orthodox man who served in the IDF and another a combat reservist, have spoken out about the unequal burden of military service in Israel, particularly in the context of the ongoing war. Ariel Menashe, who grew up in an ultra-Orthodox household but chose to enlist and served as a recruiter for Haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews), highlighted the resistance he faced from within his community. He recounted instances of extreme opposition, including protests outside the recruitment office and the distribution of pamphlets against him, noting that in more strictly Lithuanian Haredi circles, families may even cease contact with sons who enlist.

Menashe also criticized the IDF's approach to recruiting Haredim, suggesting that the set quotas were too low and that the army could do more. He pointed out a gap in support for Haredi recruits, who sometimes face expulsion from their homes upon deciding to enlist and are left without immediate support until their official induction. He believes that those who choose to serve demonstrate leadership.

Aviv Ezra, a reservist who has completed approximately 400 days of reserve duty since the October 7th attacks, expressed frustration over the perceived lack of contribution from the Haredi community. He likened military readiness to a "guard duty list," observing that a significant portion of his "brothers," the Haredim, were not participating. Ezra, who founded the "Victory Generation" organization to advocate for a genuine conscription law, feels that reservists and their families are bearing an excessive load while the government negotiates political arrangements.

Both Menashe and Ezra criticized recent legislative efforts, such as the proposed Basic Law on Torah Study, which they see as a way to legitimize draft evasion. Ezra metaphorically stated that "Torah is being used as a shovel to dig for draft evasion," questioning how one can equate the sacrifice of soldiers with those who actively avoid military service. They advocate for tangible consequences for draft dodgers, such as travel restrictions and the removal of subsidies, alongside benefits for those who serve.