IDF opens haredi winter recruitment as coalition talks tackle conscription

The IDF's winter recruitment cycle for haredi men in combat support roles began Sunday, with dozens arriving at Tel Hashomer. Military officials expressed cautious optimism as coalition talks over the conscription bill continued. The IDF reported rising haredi enlistment: 1,200 in 2023, 2,800 in 2024, and 4,300 in 2025, targeting 4,800 for the 2026 recruitment year.

The IDF's winter recruitment cycle for young haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men entering combat support roles began Sunday morning, as behind-the-scenes coalition negotiations with the haredi parties continued amid disagreements over the conscription bill. Several dozen prospective recruits arrived at the Meitav recruitment center at Tel Hashomer during the first stage of the process. Military officials reported no unusual incidents, described the enlistment as a positive trend, and expressed cautious optimism about meeting recruitment targets. To prepare for expanded haredi enlistment, Brig. Gen. Amir Vadmani, head of the Personnel Directorate's manpower staff, led extensive planning to refine recruitment tracks and service conditions tailored to haredi recruits, in accordance with the High Court of Justice's ruling and the elimination of the blanket exemption from military service. Preparations included a thorough review of conditions at military bases and the readiness of training staff, aiming to adapt intake procedures, ensure appropriate kosher food standards, and meet recruits' needs while preserving their haredi religious way of life. According to Personnel Directorate figures, more than 1,200 haredim enlisted in 2023, approximately 2,800 in 2024, and approximately 4,300 in 2025, an increase of about 53% from the previous year. For the 2026 recruitment year, the IDF has set a target of approximately 4,800 haredi recruits, aiming for a record number in combat and combat support roles.