"It passed quietly, without unusual incidents": The recruitment of Haredim in the winter cycle opens

The winter recruitment cycle of young Haredi men for combat support roles in the IDF opened this morning at the Mitve Base in Tel Hashomer. Dozens of recruits arrived, and according to military sources, the recruitment passed quietly without unusual incidents. The recruitment takes place against the backdrop of efforts to form a government with the Haredi parties and the debate over the conscription law.

The winter recruitment cycle of young Haredi men for combat support roles in the IDF opened this morning (Sunday) at the Mitve Base in Tel Hashomer. Dozens of recruits arrived at the base, and according to military sources, the recruitment passed quietly without unusual incidents. The sources expressed cautious optimism regarding the continued implementation of recruitment targets. The recruitment takes place against the backdrop of efforts to form a government with the Haredi parties and the debate over the conscription law. The IDF prepared for the expansion of recruitment: Brigadier General Amir Vadmani conducted staff work to adapt recruitment tracks and service conditions, subject to the High Court ruling. According to IDF Personnel Directorate data, in 2023 over 1,200 Haredim enlisted, in 2024 about 2,800, and in 2025 about 4,300 – a jump of about 53% compared to the previous year. For the 2026 recruitment year, a target of about 4,800 Haredi recruits was set.