Israeli Reservists Could Decide Upcoming Elections Amid Mental Health and Draft Law Concerns

A recent in-depth survey by the Madgem Institute examined the political attitudes of Israeli reservists, a significant electoral group mobilized heavily since the October 7 conflict. The poll found that the top three parties among reservists are Yachdut with 17%, Likud with 16%, and Yisrael with 15%. Notably, 17% support Naftali Bennett's party, while 61% of right-wing reservists oppose the exemption law from military service. Additionally, 34% reported deteriorated mental health due to their service, and 62% demand a state commission of inquiry into the events surrounding the conflict.

Reservists described the immense personal toll of repeated mobilizations, with many serving hundreds of days in reserve duty since October 7. They expressed frustration over the lack of governmental support, housing issues, and the exemption law favoring ultra-Orthodox Jews, which many see as unfair. Despite the formation of parties claiming to represent reservists, such as the "Reservists Party," support for them remains low at 3%. The survey also revealed a high level of political diversity among reservists, with 10% undecided and others spread across various parties including Otzma Yehudit, Yisrael Beiteinu, and the Democrats.

Regarding security perceptions, 26% believe the security situation has improved, while 43% think the IDF remains trapped in outdated strategies. Half of the reservists foresee a military confrontation with Turkey within five years. Opinions on U.S. President Trump’s stance on Israel are divided, with 55% fearing he might become anti-Israel.

The survey highlighted deep divisions over the concept of "total victory" in the ongoing conflict, with many reservists skeptical about its feasibility under current leadership. Mental health struggles and the burden of service fuel calls for political change, though some remain loyal to Netanyahu and others seek new leadership. On the contentious issue of drafting ultra-Orthodox and Arab citizens, reservists expressed varied views, with some advocating mandatory service for all sectors to strengthen national unity.

Finally, the majority of reservists support establishing a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 events, reflecting widespread distrust in existing institutions. The survey underscores the critical role reservists may play in shaping Israel’s political future amid ongoing security challenges and social tensions.