Budget Crisis Forces IDF Reserve Unit to Dismiss 20% of Called-Up Soldiers

A reserve infantry brigade in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has been ordered to immediately release approximately 20% of its soldiers who had already been called up for operational duty, due to a severe budget crisis within the defense establishment. The soldiers, who were summoned for duty about two months ago and had already begun their service, were informed of the decision with very short notice. Commanders were told the IDF lacks the funds to cover additional reserve duty days.

The affected soldiers had already been away from their civilian jobs for over 100 days, with some having arranged for replacements. Reserve officers are concerned that this decision, made after the soldiers had already reported for duty and commenced operational tasks, will damage morale and willingness to serve in the future. This is reportedly the seventh reserve call-up for the brigade since October 7.

The cutback in reserve duty days is part of broader budget constraints impacting the IDF, which faces a deficit of approximately 40 billion shekels. Other measures include a halt in recruitment for career service, with around 300 to 400 young individuals in technological roles unable to extend their service by an additional year. Preparations for winter at IDF bases are also delayed due to funding shortages.

Defense officials have previously warned that insufficient funding would impair various military capabilities, including training, ammunition, and equipment. While defense sources indicate the shortage is already affecting operations, the Ministry of Finance contends that agreed-upon budgets have been transferred and the issue lies with the defense establishment's budget management.