IDF to Recruit 3,000 Ultra-Orthodox Soldiers in 2025 Amid Protests, No Limits Starting 2026

Jan 9, 2025, 02:46 PM

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will be able to recruit 3,000 ultra-Orthodox soldiers in 2025, according to a document submitted to the High Court of Justice. Starting in 2026, there will be no limit on the recruitment of ultra-Orthodox soldiers into the army. This decision comes amidst ongoing protests by ultra-Orthodox groups against mandatory military service. Demonstrators from the Jerusalem faction have blocked Highway 4 near Bnei Brak in protest against the conscription law. In the second recruitment cycle of 2024, the IDF enlisted 338 new ultra-Orthodox recruits, including 211 fighters and 127 combat supporters. The IDF has adapted its recruitment procedures to better accommodate the ultra-Orthodox community, including modifying psychotechnical tests and individual interviews. Despite these efforts, the initial response from the community has been mixed, with only 413 out of 3,000 summoned recruits showing up in the first quarter, and 249 completing the enlistment process.