IDF chief meets with yeshiva students, says military 'does not seek' change in haredi identity

NOVEMBER 4, 2026 01:26IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir met on Tuesday with students at a haredi (ultra-Orthodox) hesder yeshiva in Gan Yavne, emphasizing the military's commitment to allowing young haredi men to serve in the IDF while maintaining their religious lifestyle and beliefs."The IDF does not seek to change your identity. Our goal is for you to enter the military as haredim and leave as haredim. This is not merely a statement, but a commitment by the military and by me personally," Zamir told the students.The meeting was attended by Yossi Levy, CEO of the Netzah Yehuda organization, Rabbi Carmi Gross, head of the Derech Chaim yeshivas, and additional military commanders.Zamir addressed the importance of integrating haredim into military service, stressing that expanding the pool of recruits is essential given the security challenges facing the IDF."You embody the belief that combining Torah study, preparation for life and contributing to the security of the state are complementary values," he told the students.Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men. (credit: Marc Israel Sellem)"You prove that it is possible to preserve your identity, share the burden and take part in defending the State of Israel and its citizens."IDF chief's commitment: 'Enter the military as haredim and leave as haredim'Zamir emphasized that the military's responsibility for integrating haredi soldiers goes beyond establishing dedicated service frameworks and requires adjustments by commanders."Our responsibility does not end with creating suitable service frameworks. It requires us to recognize the needs of haredi service members, understand their world and respect their beliefs," he said."We must train commanders who know how to lead them with sensitivity and professionalism, while remaining aware of the responsibility placed upon them."Zamir praised the students' decision to combine Torah study with military service."When I come here to the yeshiva, I see the embodiment of the expression 'Sifra veSaifa,' the book and the sword. This is not a slogan, but a way of life," he said.He added: "Each of you is a modern-day Nachshon ben Aminadav. You will be remembered as pioneers who paved the way for others."'October 7 highlighted the need for a larger military'Addressing the security situation, Zamir said the events of October 7 demonstrated the need to increase the IDF's manpower."The IDF is engaged in one of the longest and most complex multi-front campaigns we have known, both along the country's borders and beyond them," he said."The lessons learned require us to strengthen the military's ranks, expand the pool of those serving and ensure our readiness to carry out our various missions."During his remarks, Zamir also addressed the IDF's multiyear plan, known as "Hoshen," which he is leading. The plan is based on 12 core areas of military force development, corresponding to the 12 tribes of Israel."There is a profound message here: Each stone in the breastplate is unique in itself, but only together do they form a complete whole," he explained."Especially in these times, we understand more than ever that only together will we win."Zamir concluded his remarks with a call for unity and shared responsibility for Israel's security."We will stand together, fight together and prevail together, with a sense of mission, faith in the righteousness of our path and the importance of our mission, and a deep commitment to the State of Israel."Follow us on Google