Israelis Donate Over $300 Million to IDF Amid Equipment Shortages
Since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, and throughout the ongoing war, Israelis and Jewish diaspora communities have donated over 1.2 billion shekels (approximately $320 million) to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The Association for the Support of Soldiers, an organization authorized to receive these donations, reported that funds were allocated to equipment, infrastructure, military bases, and support for soldiers and their families. Data on donations prior to the war is unavailable, making it impossible to compare current levels to peacetime.
Significant portions of the donations, totaling hundreds of millions of shekels, were directed towards essential needs. Specifically, 134 million shekels were used for aid and equipment acquisition early in the war, with an additional 64 million shekels for assistance certificates. Over 227 million shekels funded infrastructure development for bases and outposts, and nearly 197 million shekels were invested in equipping military camps. Another 104 million shekels purchased 160 ambulances, tens of thousands of winter gear sets, hygiene items, and undergarments for frontline soldiers. Commercial companies also donated 645 "rest and recovery kits."
Beyond material support, donations facilitated personal well-being. Over 4,000 lone soldiers received flights to visit family abroad, and more than 14,000 families of fallen soldiers participated in organized recreational programs. Funding was also provided for a specialized center focused on treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The substantial donations highlight ongoing equipment shortages, a problem reported by soldiers since the war's outset. In October 2023, Ynet reported widespread appeals for basic combat gear like body armor, helmets, and knee pads. Soldiers and reservists have frequently shared accounts of needing to procure essential equipment through donations or even personal funds. One reservist stated that his unit continues to fundraise for necessary items like functional weapon sights and replacements for low-quality operational gear.
These donations come amid a contentious budget dispute between Israel's Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Defense. While the defense budget is substantial, disagreements persist over its allocation and potential increases. The Ministry of Finance claims sufficient funds are available, while the security establishment warns that funding delays could jeopardize critical acquisitions and operations. The public's extensive donations underscore societal support for the troops, even as some units rely on external aid for basic necessities.
A ceremony was held on September 15, 2026, to honor donors, attended by senior IDF officials, including Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, and representatives from major Israeli companies and international donors. The CEO of the Association for the Support of Soldiers emphasized the crucial role of these contributions in sustaining their operations throughout the war.
