Jerusalem, 20 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Fifteen cadets have completed the first officers’ course in the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) Hasmonean Brigade, established for Haredi soldiers, marking a milestone in efforts to integrate Haredi men into military service. The eight-month course concluded Tuesday with a ceremony atop the Western Wall Yeshiva in Jerusalem, attended by IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir.
The graduates include soldiers who advanced through the Hasmonean Brigade’s ranks and others who transferred from different units. Their training covered combat tactics, command, navigation, and live-fire exercises. They also participated in operational activities in Lebanon, Judea, and Samaria.
The course followed standard IDF officers’ school requirements while accommodating Haredi religious observance, including strict kosher standards, designated prayer and study times, and gender-separated settings.
The new officers are expected to assume command positions. The next course is scheduled to begin in November.
