IDF Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir told commanders from the Yonatan Battalion of the Hasmonean Brigade that the military "must grow, expand and become stronger," Citing lessons from the Oct. 7, 2023, attack.
The Hasmonean Brigade is a specialized IDF infantry unit designed to recruit ultra-Orthodox men while allowing them to maintain their religious practices.
During a Wednesday meeting at the Israel-Lebanon border, Zamir said that "We must increase our reinforcement and build more battalions and brigades capable of operating, defeating the enemy, and defending the State of Israel," According to the IDF Spokesperson's Unit.
Zamir emphasized that "Your integration into the IDF is vital to the security of the State of Israel and the entire people of Israel," And noted rising enlistment numbers of Haredi men in both combat and support roles.
"We must continue to replicate the Yonatan Battalion and develop the Hasmonean Brigade into a full combat brigade. We will continue moving forward toward one shared goal. I am proud of you and have full confidence in you," Zamir said.
He praised the brigade's first regular service battalion for "breaking new ground," Comparing it to a biblical figure who was "the first to step into the sea and pave the way for the entire people." Zamir said this battalion would be remembered for breaking new ground and enabling expanded ultra-Orthodox enlistment.