The head of the Israel Defense Forces, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, has warned that the military faces serious internal strain due to a growing manpower shortage.
According to reports by The Jerusalem Post, Zamir raised alarm during a security cabinet meeting, saying the army could struggle to sustain operations if the issue persists.
Mounting Pressure on Forces
Military officials say the shortage has stretched troops across multiple fronts, including:
- Gaza Strip
- Lebanon
- Syria
- West Bank
Sources warned that without reinforcements, operational gaps could widen, even under normal conditions.
Conscription Debate Intensifies
Analysts link the shortage to stalled efforts to expand military service, especially among the ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly paused a proposed draft law that aimed to increase enlistment, citing the need for unity during the ongoing conflict.
Political Backlash
Opposition leaders have sharply criticised the government’s handling of the issue.
Yair Lapid warned that authorities cannot claim ignorance in future crises.
- Avigdor Liberman called for universal conscription.
- Naftali Bennett urged swift action on reforms.
- Gadi Eisenkot said broader mandatory service is urgently needed.
The Yesh Atid Party described the delay in conscription reforms as a growing security threat.
Why It Matters
Experts say prolonged reliance on reservists could weaken readiness and increase pressure on active personnel. The debate also reflects deeper divisions within Israeli society over military service obligations.
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