Hundreds of young Haredi men enlisted in the IDF's combat units Thursday morning, marking what many are calling a historic moment for both the military and the traditionally non-serving community.
"This feels like being part of history in the making," says Shmuel, 19, from Jerusalem, who was among the new recruits at the enlistment center. While the decision to serve remains controversial within his community, Shmuel believes he's found a way to balance his religious convictions with national service. "Once I discovered there were programs that let me maintain my religious lifestyle while serving my country, the decision became clear."
