IDF Chief of Staff Warns of Need to Expand Military Service Pool

IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, represented by a spokesperson, attended an appreciation event for the IDF and security forces hosted by the National Labor Federation on Thursday. During the event, Halevi accepted an award on behalf of the IDF, emphasizing that the honor belonged to the soldiers, reservists, and their families, not himself. He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by reservists who left their personal lives to serve, and honored those who paid the ultimate price.

Halevi stated that Israel has been engaged in a prolonged, unprecedented, and multi-front conflict for over a thousand days, significantly degrading the capabilities of its adversaries. He asserted that the IDF has removed existential threats that had been building for years, demonstrating its long reach and commitment to neutralizing threats proactively, a shift from previous policies of non-confrontation. The IDF is continuously learning and implementing lessons from this ongoing conflict.

Addressing the current challenges within the IDF, Halevi issued a stark warning: "We must enlarge the IDF, expand the pool of conscripts, and adapt it in terms of troop numbers and advanced capabilities to meet its expanding missions." He stressed that a paramount duty is to care for all military personnel, including career soldiers, conscripts, reservists, and civilian employees, as they form the foundation of the IDF's strength. Halevi concluded by referencing a prayer, stating that the joy and peace in Israel are not guaranteed but are earned daily through courage, determination, and unwavering dedication.