The Association of Haredi Hesder Yeshivas, which unites 15 institutions, announced Tuesday that it aims to expand from the current 1,000 students to 5,000 within three years, following the Defense Ministry's formal recognition and budget allocation. The association's leaders hailed the recognition as a historic turning point.
The Association of Haredi Hesder Yeshivas announced Tuesday afternoon that it aims to expand from 1,000 to 5,000 students within three years, following the Defense Ministry's formal recognition of the association on Monday. The recognition, which grants administrative independence and budget access to 15 institutions, was confirmed in a letter from Deputy Director General Kova Blitstein and Head of the Torah Track Recruitment Division Udi Dror.
The recognition was first reported Monday at 18:20 Jerusalem by Channel 12's Eli Hirshman and by Galatz (IDF Radio) via Halperin, both confirming the Defense Ministry's decision. The association, established by Yossi Levy, Rabbi Yonatan Reis, Asher Fredi, and Rabbi Avraham Brodyansky, among others, said the move builds on earlier support from Education Minister Yoav Kisch, who provided initial budgets.
The development is part of broader efforts to integrate Haredi men into military service. As The Zioneer reported on June 23, data from the standard Hesder yeshiva program shows a 99% enlistment rate and 85% combat service. On June 29, Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the formulation of a new 'Chabad Arrangement' framework for Haredi conscription. The coalition is also advancing a legislative blitz that includes a Basic Law: Torah Study, as reported Monday.
The association's target of 5,000 students represents a fivefold increase from the current 1,000 students across 15 institutions. It remains to be seen whether the institutions will meet this ambitious goal within the three-year timeframe.
3 developments
- DevelopingHesder yeshiva data shows 99% enlistment, 85% combat service
- DevelopingHesder Yeshiva Union says in ongoing talks with IDF to enable halakha-compliant enlistment to Armored Corps
- DevelopingHundreds of Mir yeshiva students receiving legal guidance ahead of possible military arrest
- StrongBill freezing arrests of yeshiva students approved for final Knesset readings
Source and signal
- Internal intake