My Jewish name ends with "Israel Alter," who was one of the Hasidic leaders of the Gur dynasty. Even though I don't live an ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, I can still see similarities between myself and my grandparents, who were deeply rooted in that tradition in the streets of these neighborhoods like e.g. Bnei Brak, Mea Shearim, Geula or Zfat.
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Israeli society is often described as a mosaic of identities, traditions and worldviews. One of the most complex and widely discussed dynamics today is the relationship between the Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community and the State of Israel, particularly in the context of military service and civic responsibility.

In this in-depth session we explore the historical roots, religious perspectives and social realities that shape the current debate about Haredi participation in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Rather than approaching the issue through headlines or political slogans, the workshop seeks to understand the internal logic, fears, values and aspirations that exist within different parts of Israeli society.

Topics we explore:
• The historical origins of the Haredi community in Israel
• Religion, Torah study and the concept of a “society of learners”
• Why military service became such a central political issue
• The perspectives within the Haredi world itself
• How the debate reflects deeper questions of identity, citizenship and responsibility
• Possible future scenarios for Israeli society

Why this discussion matters:
The question of Haredi integration into the IDF and Israeli society is not only a political debate. It touches on fundamental questions about religion, modernity, democracy and the future character of the Jewish state.

Understanding this debate allows visitors to Israel to see beyond stereotypes and better appreciate the internal diversity and tensions within Israeli society.