R’ Mendel Roth, the son of the Shomrei Emunim Rebbe from Ashdod and a descendant of Rav Aharon Roth, publicly declared his intention to join the newly established charedi Hashmonaim Brigade on Monday evening.

R’ Roth is widely recognized for his bold and candid stances on both public and halachic matters.

In a heartfelt post on his Facebook page, R’ Roth, who is also a musician, described the inner struggles he has faced over the past year since the onset of the war: “Throughout the year, I’ve been plagued by a deep sense of unease. As the blood of my fellow Jews flows freely, I’ve remained silent,” he confessed. “Instead of compiling a list of justifications while my conscience gnaws at me, I must confront the truth head-on and take decisive action.”

This pivotal decision followed an impactful conversation with Col. Avinoam Emunah, the officer set to command the brigade. “Speaking with him felt more like conversing with a Rosh Yeshiva than a military leader,” R’ Roth recounted.

He expressed his determination to serve as a combat soldier: “The decision is final. Mendel is joining the new charedi brigade as a combat soldier, embracing the mission of instilling Jewish values and spiritual influence within the unit.”

At 33, R’ Roth acknowledged the potential challenges ahead: “I’m fully aware that during basic training, I might discover I’m not cut out for the mental or physical demands of being a combat soldier. If that happens, I will dedicate myself entirely to the brigade’s spiritual and emotional welfare, with God’s help.”

R’ Roth believes the establishment of this brigade represents a significant transformation within the IDF: “The IDF has recognized something it hadn’t before and is now fully committed to ensuring the success of this initiative. They’re ready to address the spiritual and emotional needs of the charedi community like never before.”

He noted that many charedi rabbonim who have reviewed the program details have expressed strong support for the initiative, though they emphasized that widespread enlistment of charedim would likely follow only after an initial trial period.

“I am deeply moved and proud of this decision,” R’ Roth concluded. “This brigade ushers in a new era of hope and unity, carrying profound historical significance for the fractured and troubled Israeli society.”

{Matzav.com Israel}