According to statistics released by the IDF, the chareidi community that does not serve in the military only constitutes 25% of the eligible age youth who evade military service. This paints an entirely different picture as the anti-religious and left-wing communities continue to bash chareidim for “not doing their share and serving their country”.

IDF Colonel Tziki Sela, head of the IDF Planning & Manpower Administration told the Knesset Education Committee that only 52% of eligible age youth serve in the IDF, a significant drop from 59% in 2002. The colonel estimates the number of youths evading military service at 7,000 annually, with the chareidi community making up about 25% of that number, those who openly declare they will not/cannot serve due to their dedication to Torah study.

Sela proudly stated that 80% of soldiers express satisfaction with their service and 70.3% strive towards acceptance in a combat unit.

Other reasons for exemptions, other than religious belief include living abroad, medical deferments, and criminal records.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)