Aryeh Erlich
Ynet News, Feb. 26, 2024
“Any discussion on the subject can only take place after the other side accepts that the ultra-Orthodox public sees itself as committed to the mission of Torah study and holds that value above all else.”
Since the October 7 massacre, the question of the participation of ultra-Orthodox young men in the military has been an exposed Israeli wound. Unlike previous rounds of public debate, this time the discussion is made up of deep and authentic layers of pain. This is not politics. Anyone who has taken part in military funerals, anyone who has seen the deep pain and immense void in the eyes of the families, understands that there is no end to the abyss of pain.
Out of the war-inflicted pain, many honestly ask: “Where are the ultra-Orthodox?” An ultra-Orthodox politician who belittles this pain can not begin to understand this pain in Israeli society. This pain needs to be embraced. We are partners in this country, subject to the same threats, hated by the same enemies, and threatened by the same dangers; Therefore, we are required to respond to the Israeli dilemma regarding our common security mission.
Indeed, these thoughts occupy many in the ultra-Orthodox community. A comprehensive survey conducted on behalf of the Haredi Institute for Public Affairs showed that about 70% of the ultra-Orthodox public believe that those who do not study Torah should contribute to military or civilian service.
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