IDF opens haredi winter recruitment as coalition talks tackle conscription
Dozens of haredi men began recruitment for IDF combat support roles as coalition talks continued amid disputes over the conscription bill.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched its winter recruitment cycle specifically targeting young Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men on Sunday morning. This initiative aimed to fill combat support roles within the military. The process commenced at the Meitav recruitment center in Tel Hashomer, where several dozen prospective recruits arrived.
Despite ongoing coalition negotiations with Haredi parties, disagreements persisted over the conscription bill. However, military officials reported that the recruitment process was proceeding smoothly, describing the turnout as a positive development. They expressed cautious optimism about meeting recruitment targets.
To accommodate the growing number of Haredi men seeking enlistment, Brig. Gen. Amir Vadmani, head of the Personnel Directorate's manpower staff, oversaw extensive planning. This included refining recruitment tracks and service conditions specifically tailored to Haredi recruits, in accordance with a High Court of Justice ruling and the elimination of the blanket exemption from military service.
The preparatory work encompassed a comprehensive review of military base conditions, readiness of training staff, and adaptation of intake procedures. Military officials emphasized that these changes were designed to meet the unique needs of Haredi recruits while preserving their religious way of life. This included ensuring appropriate kosher food standards and preserving the Haredi lifestyle throughout their day of service.
Military officials from the Technology and Logistics Directorate revealed that changes implemented over the past year were aimed at accommodating a larger number of Haredi recruits across various service tracks, including combat support roles. Notably, Haredi recruitment numbers have been steadily increasing. According to Personnel Directorate figures, over 1,200 Haredi men enlisted in 2023, approximately 2,800 in 2024, and an estimated 4,300 in 2025, representing a significant 53% increase from the previous year.
For the upcoming 2026 recruitment year, which spans from July 2026 to July 2027, the IDF aims to recruit a record number of Haredi recruits. The target is approximately 4,800 Haredi men, with plans to expand enlistment beyond maintenance, software, and administrative positions into combat and combat support roles.
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