Zamir to Yeshiva Students: Enter as Haredim, Leave as Haredims

Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, the Israeli Defense Forces chief of staff, told ultra-Orthodox students on Tuesday that the army does not want to change who they are. He made the promise during a visit to a hesder yeshiva in Gan Yavne. Zamir emphasized that the military intends to recruit young men from the Haredi community while allowing them to maintain their specific religious practices and beliefs.

Zamir spoke directly to the students about the goal of the recruitment drive. He stated, "The IDF does not seek to change your identity. Our goal is for you to enter the military as haredim and leave as haredim." He described this arrangement as a personal commitment from him and the military leadership, not just a verbal assurance.

The meeting included Yossi Levy, the chief executive of the Netzah Yehuda organization, and Rabbi Carmi Gross, who heads the Derech Chaim yeshivas. Several other military commanders were present as well. Zamir explained that expanding the pool of recruits is necessary because of the current security challenges. He told the group that combining Torah study with military service represents complementary values.

Zamir noted that the military has a duty that goes beyond simply creating separate service frameworks for religious soldiers. He said commanders must understand the needs of Haredi service members and respect their beliefs. The chief of staff added that the IDF must train its officers to lead these soldiers with sensitivity and professionalism. He described the students as embodying the concept of the book and the sword, a lifestyle he said is not just a slogan.

Addressing the current war, Zamir said the events of October 7 showed that the IDF needs more manpower. He described the ongoing conflict as one of the longest and most complex multi-front campaigns in recent history. The general stated that the lessons learned from the war require the military to strengthen its ranks and ensure it is ready for its missions. He argued that only by expanding the pool of those serving can the IDF meet its various duties.

Zamir also discussed the IDF's multiyear development plan, named Hoshen. The plan is built on twelve core areas of force development, which correspond to the twelve tribes of Israel. He explained that each area is unique, but they only work together to form a complete whole. He concluded his remarks by calling for unity and shared responsibility, stating that the country will stand, fight, and prevail together.

The chief of staff praised the students for their decision to combine study and service. He called them modern-day pioneers who paved the way for others. He ended his speech by expressing a deep commitment to the state and a faith in the righteousness of the military's path. The visit aimed to solidify the relationship between the army and the Haredi community as recruitment efforts continue.