Unfortunately, as Yirmyahu writes, the Teshuva was reversed. I learned the historical context from Rav Binyamin Lau's recent book about Yirmyahu: After Nevuchadnezzar withdrew, temporarily, to fight the Egyptian army in the sea-coast area, it became clear that the slaves were released only because of the pressure of war. Once this pressure was reduced, the Jewish slaves were re-enslaved. This act of evil sealed the fate of Yerushalayim.
In view of the increasing pressure of Islamic regimes around Israel, I think we should reflect on the need for Teshuva of similar kind. Islam is a system of slavery. Islam demands that man submits, and denies him, and especially her, freedom. Islam should be a mirror to us, to reflect. Slavery abounds also in religious Jewish circles. Slavery is when the details of one's clothing are seen as a matter of essence. Slavery is when a woman cannot find a Shidduch because her brother serves in Nachal Charedi. Slavery is when someone learns in Kollel because of social pressure. This is Islam. This is Galut. This is a type of slavery which cannot be allowed to persist in Israel. The Torah demands freedom for Jews. Without it the Geula cannot be.
כל רצון חפשי סופו לטוב וכל הכרח סופו לרע
Rav Kook, Iggrot HaKodesh 3:24
