IDF Chief Ashkenazi
Photo: Ofer Amram
IDF chief: Do justice with hesder yeshivot
Ashkenazi says criticism voiced by Paratroopers Brigade Commander against hesder program 'not the way to express oneself'
Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi
on Tuesday addressed the criticism voiced by Paratroopers Brigade Commander Aharon Haliva against yeshiva students serving in the army.
"I believe commanders are entitled to an opinion, but I think this is not the way to say it. I think this is not the place to say it," Ashkenazi told Army Radio.
"We must do justice with the yeshiva students. They serve in the IDF and have an important contribution to the command and reserve forces. I understand the commanders' desire to have everyone do everything, but this is the arrangement."
Colonel Haliva sparked a tow when he referred to the hesder yeshivot program as "lacking values" and admitted that he discriminated against the hesder yeshivot soldiers under his command.
Haliva told soldiers that he "hates" the hesder track, because its soldiers serve for a shorter period of time than other troops.
Earlier this week, Haliva spoke to Rabbi Haim Druckman, one of the leaders of the hesder yeshivot program, and told him that he "highly appreciates the hesder yeshiva soldiers, adding that "these troops are outstanding and serve as a personal role model in the army."
Army Chief Ashkenazi addressed the issue two days ago, saying that "the yeshiva students come to the IDF with faith and a strong desire to contribute. They have become a significant force in the IDF chain of command."
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