After more than a year of intense fighting, the Israeli army is facing a new challenge: a shortage of reservists reporting for duty.
The New York Times reports that an increasing number of reservists are refusing to return to the military, citing physical and mental exhaustion, family pressures, professional strain, and disillusionment with the ongoing war.
Israel is preparing for another phase of its ground offensive in Gaza and has planned to call up an additional 60,000 reservists. However, military officials admit that it remains unclear how many will respond to the call, raising doubts about the government’s objective of “destroying Hamas.”
In some units, participation has dropped to 40–50 percent, according to accounts from soldiers and commanders. While some troops emphasize high morale, others describe exhausted units and a lack of motivation. The army has started offering incentives—such as shorter service periods and paid leave—in an attempt to keep forces active.
Beyond the Gaza front, Israel is also engaged in operations in Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank, further straining its army and reservists.
