The IDF is considering establishing an ultra-Orthodox battalion in the Givati Brigade, a hyper-Orthodox reconnaissance company in the armory, and perhaps even another ultra-Orthodox battalion in the Jordan Valley. This was reported this morning (Wednesday) on Galei Tzahal.
The establishment of the Haredi battalion in the Givati Brigade, as well as a Haredi armored reconnaissance company that will likely be under Brigade 188, is being discussed at very high levels in the IDF. Other levels are discussing the establishment of another battalion in the Valley.
The IDF has been holding discussions on religious-halakhic issues in recent weeks, to enable the establishment of the new battalions.
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There are currently over 3,000 ultra-Orthodox soldiers serving in the army, and the figure is increasing every year. According to the report, senior IDF officials estimate - detached from what is happening in ultra-Orthodox society - that within three years it will be possible to recruit between 7,000 and 8,000 new ultra-Orthodox soldiers.
Yesterday, it was announced on Galei Tzahal that the IDF will begin sending voluntary enlistment orders to all Christian citizens of the country, who until now had to contact the army on their own initiative. According to the army, the move will significantly increase the number of recruits among the Christian community in Israel.
In recent years, positive forces have been operating within the Christian community, led by Father Gabriel Nadaf and Capt. (res.) Shadi Khalul, who are encouraging young Christians to enlist. To date, the IDF has not had a clear position on the issue, but the current decision most clearly expresses the IDF's desire to integrate these young people into its ranks.
This revelation caused an uproar among Israeli Arabs and their representatives in the Knesset, with MK Isawi Freij from Meretz sending a letter to the Chief of Staff yesterday on the subject, claiming that this was an improper political move.
On the other hand, in the recruitment forum, Christians welcome and say: "This is a high-quality population.".
