Israel - December 03, 2025 The IDF held the graduation ceremony for the first squad leader course in the Hashmonaim Brigade, marking a milestone in the integration of ultra-Orthodox soldiers into command positions. The ceremony was led by the brigade commander, Col. A., and attended by commanders and families of the graduates. Approximately 70 soldiers completed the course, which included training in urban and open-terrain combat, navigation exercises across various regions of the country and operational experience in Gaza. This inaugural course for ultra-Orthodox squad leaders reflects broader efforts within the IDF to expand opportunities for Haredi soldiers and strengthen their role within the military.