From Paratroopers to Technology: Recruitment for Haredi Tracks Begins Tomorrow

Recruitment for Haredi tracks in the IDF will begin tomorrow (Sunday). The security establishment is presenting a series of frameworks adapted for the Haredi public, ranging from combat service in the Paratroopers, the Hashmonaim Brigade, and Netzah Yehuda to technological and logistical tracks. All paths are anchored in a General Staff order intended to enable meaningful service while maintaining a Haredi lifestyle.

Combat Tracks

Hetz Company (Haredi Paratroopers)

The Hetz company operates under the 202nd Battalion of the Paratroopers Brigade. Joining the company is conditional upon passing a dedicated screening process, including physical and personality tests designed to assess fitness, determination, and suitability for combat service.

During the war, the company operated in four different arenas—Judea and Samaria, the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, and Syria—becoming the first Haredi company to operate in all of them. Its fighters participated in offensive operations, arrests, border protection missions, and the recovery of hostage bodies from the Jabalia refugee camp.

Hashmonaim Brigade

The Yonatan Battalion, the brigade's first regular unit, has been operating for over six months in southern Lebanon. Fighters have worked under the 300th and 679th Regional Brigades to protect northern communities and destroy Hezbollah's terrorist infrastructure, weapon depots, and underground shafts. They also neutralized loaded launchers aimed at Israel and captured a Radwan force terrorist.

Simultaneously, the Shimon Battalion—the brigade's first reserve unit—is active. It consists of 'Stage B' graduates and other Haredi servicemen. The battalion has finished its establishment training and is expected to enter operational activity in the northern sector during the holidays.

The brigade also conducts professional courses adapted to the Haredi lifestyle, including the fourth cycle of the squad commanders' course and the final stages of the first brigade officers' course under the 'Gefen' track.

Netzah Yehuda Battalion

Netzah Yehuda is the IDF's first Haredi battalion, established to combine meaningful combat service with conditions that allow for a Haredi lifestyle. Training lasts about eight months, including basic combat training and advanced drills, leading to a 07 rifleman qualification.

During the war, the battalion operated in Gaza, Judea, Samaria, and Lebanon, eliminating hundreds of terrorists and thwarting terror activities. In recent years, the unit has evolved from a routine security force into an infantry battalion with advanced independent maneuvering capabilities, currently operating beyond Mount Hiram to ensure the safety of northern residents.

Technological and Logistical Tracks

Ma'alot Tzur

The 'Ma'alot Tzur' track operates within the Technology and Logistics Directorate, allowing participants to integrate into roles that contribute to operational readiness. The track includes 00 basic training and allows for professional skill acquisition.

Project Yoav

'Project Yoav' is also designed to integrate Haredi soldiers into technological and logistical roles. The track includes 02 basic training and provides professional knowledge and experience, allowing for integration into the IDF's operational work.

What all these tracks have in common is the effort to combine the IDF's needs with service conditions that allow Haredi servicemen to maintain their lifestyle, whether in combat or in technical roles.