Ultra-Orthodox women to join Israeli Army

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JERUSALEM, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- The Israeli Army Intelligence Corps has approved the enlistment of 10 married ultra-Orthodox Jewish women, a military official said.

The women will be permitted to take their young children to the bases where they serve, Israel Radio reported.

The women will serve in intelligence units, including the 8200 Unit (an intelligence information and code-gathering operation), as well in computer engineering and other electronic functions, the radio said.

They will be completely segregated from male soldiers in accordance with their religious requirements, the report said.

The official said the recruitment of members of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish sector requires larger finances in order to cater for their special requirements and dietary restrictions.

Members of the ultra-Orthodox [Haredi] Jewish community regard non-Orthodox Jews as deviating from authentic Judaism. They abide by a strict code that dictates their behavior in everyday life. Studying in secular institutions is discouraged and they are forbidden to watch television or films, read secular newspapers or use Internet for non-business purposes.

The government on Sunday approved a plan to double the number of ultra-Orthodox men serving in the army from 2,400 in 2011 to 4,800 in 2015, The Jerusalem Post said.