In a powerful and impassioned address delivered on the last day of Chol Hamoed Pesach at his home, HaGaon HaRav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Rosh Yeshivas Rashbi and Zakein Chevrei Moetzes Gedolei Hatorah, issued a resolute call to action against the looming threat of a mandatory draft for yeshiva students. His words were delivered amidst growing concerns over recent arrests of yeshiva bochurim and stalled efforts to formulate a conscription law acceptable to the Torah community.

Speaking to a gathered audience, the Rosh Yeshiva opened by acknowledging the gravity of the current situation: “Everyone knows that Klal Yisroel is in great danger today. There is a threat to take yeshiva Bochrim to the army, chas v’shalom.” He emphasized that this is not merely a policy issue but a direct challenge to the spiritual foundation of Klal Yisroel.

With clarity and conviction, he declared, “We must stand like an impregnable wall on this matter. We will proclaim to all—those who wish to hear and those who do not—that we will not give up on a single bochur. No one has the authority to forsake the holy Torah.” His words resonated as a rallying cry, urging unity and resolve in the face of external pressures.

The Rosh Yeshiva further stressed the importance of communal support for yeshiva students, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their refusal to cooperate with military authorities. “If we stand strong and protect our yeshiva bochurim, ensuring they know that all of Klal Yisroel stands with them, then Hashem will nullify this decree,” he assured.

Concluding his remarks with a heartfelt tefillah, Maran HaGaon Rabbi Bergman prayed for the elevation of Torah’s honor and the speedy arrival of Moshiach: “May we merit to see the nullification of this gezeirah and the coming of Moshiach b’meheira b’yameinu, Amen.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)