The Hasmonean Brigade began drafting its first soldiers in January, representing a significant development amid ongoing debates over military service by ultra-Orthodox men.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir marked the final night of Chanukah on Sunday by lighting the eighth candle alongside soldiers from the Hasmonean Brigade, the Israel Defense Forces’ first ultra-Orthodox combat unit, highlighting the integration of Haredi soldiers into frontline service.
Speaking to the troops, Zamir compared the brigade to the ancient Jewish fighters commemorated during the holiday. “You are the Maccabees of our time – defending the people of Israel while maintaining a Haredi way of life,” he said, calling the unit “an example of fighting spirit and mutual responsibility.”
The Hasmonean Brigade began drafting its first soldiers in January, representing a significant development amid ongoing debates over military service by ultra-Orthodox men.