Story perspectives

Israel Extends Military Service Amid Recruit Shortage

12/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

On December 5, 2025, Israeli War Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to extend mandatory service to 36 months.
The extension targets a 12,000-recruit shortage, including 7,000 combat soldiers.
The extension would add about 10,000 service days annually.
The extension may delay discharges in 2026.
The government also plans to reduce reserve forces from 60,000 to 40,000, drawing criticism from opponents including Yair Lapid.

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Story summary

On December 5, 2025, Israeli War Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to extend mandatory service to 36 months.
The extension targets a 12,000-recruit shortage, including 7,000 combat soldiers.
The extension would add about 10,000 service days annually.
The extension may delay discharges in 2026.
The government also plans to reduce reserve forces from 60,000 to 40,000, drawing criticism from opponents including Yair Lapid.