As the IDF continues implementing its austerity plan the military is sharply curtailing religious services and programs. Officials in the IDF Rabbinate feel the decisions made are not logical or in the best interest of the military.

In the latest wave of budget-cutting, the IDF Rabbinate’s unit that deals with the delivery of Jewish-oriented content to soldiers is being shut. In recent weeks there has been much discussion regarding the activities of the unit, which was established in 2001. It was during these discussions that the decision was made to shut it down and transfer it to the Education Corps, albeit in a significantly reduced capacity.

Under this unit there are two sections, with one called ‘Jewish Values & Consciousness’ which distributes content including weekly sedra and daily shiurim. The second unit sponsors seminars and lectures on bases as well as special Shabbos programs and performances including the Military Rabbinate Band.

IDF Rabbinate officials are working to reverse the decision, trying to lobby their case with senior decision-makers in the IDF Personnel Branch and other units.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)