Dr. Aaron Lerner - IMRA:

Here is whatthey came up with:

"After examining the issue with the Chief Military Rabbi, it appears as
though he does not carry a position stating that women should not serve in
the IDF"

Now. Imagine if the question was if a chicken was kosher:

After examining the issue with the Chief Military Rabbi, it appears as
though he does not carry a position stating that the chiken wasn't kosher"]

IDF Spokesperson July 2nd, 2009

Clarification Regarding Statement Made By the Chief Military Rabbi

Following publications in the media regarding a statement made by the Chief
Military Rabbi of the IDF, Brig. Gen. Avichai Rontzki, and in order to
clarify the position of the IDF on the matter, the IDF Spokesperson wishes
to clearly state the following:

Women's service in the military is permanent, appreciated and obligatory by
law and the security situation in Israel. It exists since the establishment
of the IDF.

IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi determines that the
issue of women's service in the military is not negotiated on any level in
the IDF, including the Military Rabbinate.

The main efforts regarding this subject in the IDF are reflected by the
increase in motivation to serve, opening of courses and professions for
women, and their integration throughout the IDF, including combat positions.

The convention spoken of in the media was initiated by the Military
Rabbinate and the General Staff Advisor on Women Issues, to discuss the
empowerment of religious women throughout the IDF.

After examining the issue with the Chief Military Rabbi, it appears as
though he does not carry a position stating that women should not serve in
the IDF. In fact, women serve in the Military Rabbinate, and the Military
Rabbinate constantly operates to support the service of religious women in
the IDF. Furthermore, a female officer was recently appointed in the
Military Rabbinate in order to advance this effort.