Sofer demands cooperative haredi recruitment, rejecting coercion as Israel fortifies its defenses against hostile enemies.
Israel’s Minister of Aliyah and Integration, Ofir Sofer (Religious Zionist Party), delivered a clear, strategic message on the sensitive issue of drafting haredim, insisting that Israel must pursue a measured, trust-based process rather than punitive sanctions. In an interview with Arutz Sheva, Sofer emphasized that the real goal is integrating haredi soldiers meaningfully, not provoking confrontation. As a first step, he called for the enlistment of 2,400 haredi recruits — a symbolic yet vital trust-building move.
Sofer stressed that cooperation, not pressure, is the only durable path forward. Sanctions, he warned, could fracture national cohesion at a time when Israel faces unprecedented threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and other hostile actors in the region. “Recruitment must happen,” he said, “but only by building genuine partnerships that strengthen the social fabric instead of tearing it apart.”
Addressing the coalition’s internal dynamics, Sofer noted that political alliances cannot override Israel’s foundational values. Even with close cooperation between religious and nationalist factions, he insisted that every segment of society must contribute to national security, especially as the IDF carries a heavy burden defending Israel from terror armies backed by Iran and radical Palestinian factions.
Looking ahead to the coming elections, Sofer said that achieving 2,400 new recruits for the Hashmonaim Brigade would represent a historic breakthrough, demonstrating that the haredi community can take part in Israel’s defense in a meaningful way. He also praised the appointment of Major General Roman Gofman as head of the Mossad, calling him a brilliant strategist whose only misfortune is not advancing to become Chief of Staff.
As a wounded veteran himself, Sofer turned to the painful aftermath of the Swords of Iron War, stressing Israel’s moral duty to honor and support its injured. He said Israeli society must remain deeply attentive to the wounded—physically and emotionally—recognizing their sacrifices as the price paid for Israel’s survival against terror groups who seek the destruction of the Jewish state.
