IOF faces manpower shortages, extended military service amid Gaza war
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The Israeli army acknowledges a severe manpower crisis as it is 10,000 soldiers short, prompting extended service and strained reserves amid rising Gaza war losses.
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Israeli occupation soldiers take up positions next to an entrance of a tunnel in the southern Gaza Strip, about 100 meters from the Philadelphi Corridor along the border with Egypt, during a ground invasion on Friday, September 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)
The Israeli army acknowledged Sunday a severe Israeli army manpower crisis, revealing a shortage of 10,000 soldiers, including 7,000 in combat units.
According to Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the ongoing war and ineffective recruitment efforts among the Haredim have significantly impacted troop levels.
In response, the Israeli army has extended compulsory military service by four months. The newspaper clarified that this extension is officially classified as reserve service, allowing soldiers to complete a full three years of military duty. This extended military service in "Israel" is seen as a temporary solution aimed at maintaining operational strength after months of intense fighting and heavy casualties.
The extension also seeks to reduce pressure on Israeli army reserve forces, many of whom have been mobilized for extended periods, causing financial strain. The army has additionally suspended the traditional leave typically granted before discharge, requiring soldiers to serve their full term without interruption.
Challenges in recruiting Haredim and right-wing opposition
Recruitment difficulties, particularly among the Haredim, remain a key issue. Previous government attempts to legislate an extension of compulsory service from two years and eight months to three years faced resistance from the extreme right, who demanded military service exemptions for their constituents.
This Israeli soldier shortage highlights deep divisions among the occupation's settlers regarding military obligations.
The Israeli losses during the Gaza war have exacerbated the army’s manpower issues, with increasing human losses since the resumption of hostilities.
The Palestinian Resistance has reported ambushes and operations resulting in numerous Israeli casualties, alongside special operations launched deep within the occupied Palestinian territories.
As the war drags on, the occupation’s leadership faces mounting challenges in sustaining military operations while addressing the growing strain on its forces.
