National Service (Sherut Leumi)

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Mar 26, 2025, 12:04 PM

Drafting the ultra-Orthodox is an act of survival, not a choice

Maj. Gen. David Zini, the head of the IDF’s Training Command (left), greets an ultra-Orthodox soldier drafting to the IDF’s new Haredi brigade, known as the Hasmonean Brigade, January 5, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)

Israel is no stranger to political crisis. In the last month, we have seen moves for the dismissal of the head of the Shin Bet and attorney general, the resumption of the war in Gaza following the ceasefire, and...

David Rosh Pina

Mar 4, 2025, 4:34 AM

I Accidentally Sold My Soul Over a Cup of Coffee

Di Bella Coffee (Unsplash)

I used to get coffee in El Molino, a French pastry shop on Bograshov Street, but it became too expensive, and I got tired of being constantly confused with a time traveler. I started going to the Thai massage parlor...

Dec 24, 2024, 5:15 PM

How the IDF can subcontract yeshivas and resolve the Charedi draft issue

The Charedi military draft issue continues to divide Israel at a time when unity is more important than ever. The IDF is short of manpower. The vast majority of non-Charedi Israelis believe all parts of Israeli society should bear the...

Aug 5, 2024, 8:50 AM

A Place Where Ego Doesn’t Exist

(from right) Tehilla, Temima and Nili have each learned so much about what is important in this world through their Sherut Leumi experiences.

"Abba, what do you think of coming to the school to teach my class basketball?" That question hung in the air for a few moments, which is odd, because I absolutely love basketball, and I love teaching it. I even...

Jul 7, 2024, 10:46 PM

A rational plan fo Haredi enlistment

The foundational argument of Haredi military service is one of integration and separation. Haredi society views itself as separate from but deserving of society's support. The rest of the country seriously questions whether they are so deserving of our...

Summer Pitocchelli Schwartzman

Oct 26, 2023, 6:10 PM

Sherut Leumi — Serving Israel in Her Hour of Need

During the last two weeks, many have emerged from the comfort and relative safety of their own homes to volunteer for various causes throughout Israel. From emptying their pantries to feed hungry soldiers on the front, gathering supplies for...

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