BEIT SHE’AN (VINnews) — The Israel Defense Forces’ Hasmonean Brigade, a dedicated infantry unit for ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) soldiers, held a handover ceremony in Beit She’an as Col. Shemer Raviv assumed command, replacing Col. Avinoam Emunah.

Raviv, who previously commanded the Paran Regional Brigade along Israel’s southern border with Egypt, takes the helm of the Hasmonean Brigade amid efforts to expand Haredi enlistment in the military. The unit, established in late 2024, is designed to accommodate ultra-Orthodox troops while preserving their religious lifestyle, including provisions for daily Torah study.

Emunah, the brigade’s inaugural commander since its founding, is set to be promoted to brigadier general. He will transition to a new advisory role as the chief of staff’s adviser on ultra-Orthodox affairs, the IDF announced.

The leadership change coincides with preparations for a forthcoming General Staff order that will formalize arrangements to facilitate service for ultra-Orthodox soldiers. The move comes as the military continues to address challenges in recruiting and integrating Haredi men into the IDF ranks, following broader policy shifts on conscription.

The Hasmonean Brigade operates under the IDF’s Education and Training Command and is intended to combine combat readiness with religious observance for Haredi enlistees.