Male soldiers from Hesder yeshivas now serving in mixed-gender combat units
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has made a significant stride in gender equality by integrating women into tank operations, a move that has been met with both praise and controversy.
Efrat Lupo, founder of the 'Wives of Soldiers for the Kedushas HaMachaneh (Sanctity of the Camp)' movement, has called for the IDF to respect soldiers who keep the commandments. Her concerns revolve around the treatment of soldiers who observe religious traditions, particularly in the context of the integration of female fighters.
One soldier, who wished to remain anonymous, described the mixing of genders as 'awful' and a breaking point for him. He stated that he encountered constant refusal to transfer due to being in a 'mix-gendered company.' However, no specific details about the IDF's response to these concerns were provided in the article.
The IDF adheres to its gender regulations, ensuring gender separation at the company level. Yet, the integration of women in the Kfir Brigade has made service impossible for some soldiers. Dozens of Hesder soldiers in the Kfir Brigade have reported unaddressed requests to transfer to other units. The approval for the integration of women into the Kfir Brigade was granted by the Israeli military leadership, while requests from Hesder soldiers seeking transfers to other units were denied.
The regiment spent nearly a week in the same school complex, further exacerbating the mixing issue. The Ya'ara Division, which has a mixed-gendered framework at the company level, accommodates Hesder yeshiva soldiers.
In a positive note, a woman has been appointed as Deputy Commander of an Air Force combat squadron. This appointment underscores the IDF's commitment to providing appropriate service to its soldiers, considering both gender and religious/cultural needs.
The Chotam organization, associated with the 'Wives of Soldiers for the Kedushas HaMachaneh (Sanctity of the Camp)' movement, has been vocal about these issues. Lupo stated that there should be a discussion about the recruitment of Haredim, but it must allow observant soldiers to serve properly in the IDF.
The IDF, in its efforts to maintain its principles and capabilities, has not reported any deviation from its approach to gender and religious accommodations. However, the ongoing controversy surrounding the integration of women into certain units highlights the need for continued dialogue and understanding to ensure the well-being and respect of all soldiers.
