Israeli Reservists Could Decide Upcoming Elections Amid Deep Divisions and Calls for Reform

A recent in-depth survey by the Madgem Institute examined the political attitudes of Israeli reservists, a key electoral group mobilized extensively since October 7. The survey found that 17% of reservists support the "Together" party led by Naftali Bennett, followed closely by Likud at 16% and "Yashar" with 15%. Other parties like Otzma Yehudit and Israel Beytenu received 8% and 6%, respectively, while 10% remain undecided.

Reservists report significant personal tolls from their service: 34% say their mental health has worsened, and 27% report economic decline. Many describe the strain of repeated mobilizations, with some serving over 300 days. They express frustration over issues like exemption laws, housing, and employment challenges tied to their military commitments. For example, reservist Elhanan Shkolnik criticized the unequal burden and called for shared responsibility.

Regarding the political landscape, the survey reveals a divided outlook on leadership and security. While some reservists back current government figures like Bennett and Otzma Yehudit, others express disillusionment, with some planning to cast blank ballots as a protest. Opinions on the military’s strategic situation are mixed, with 43% believing the IDF is stuck in outdated doctrines and 44% seeing progress. Over half expect a future military confrontation with Turkey.

On the contentious issue of the exemption law, 61% of right-wing reservists oppose parties supporting it, with even higher opposition (80%) among center-left voters. The survey also found that nearly half (49%) support forming a government with Arab parties abstaining, a higher rate than in the general population.

A strong majority (62%) demand a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre, reflecting widespread distrust in existing institutions. Reservists voiced frustration over political polarization, lack of clear leadership, and the absence of a unified vision for peace and security. Many emphasize their commitment to the country despite political disagreements, underscoring their pivotal role in the upcoming elections.

Summary: A Madgem Institute survey shows Israeli reservists, heavily impacted by ongoing conflict, are politically divided but crucial to election outcomes, with many demanding reforms and a state inquiry into the October 7 events.

Points: - Reservists favor "Together" (17%), Likud (16%), and "Yashar" (15%) in upcoming elections. - 34% report worsened mental health; 27% face economic hardship due to reserve service. - 61% of right-wing reservists oppose parties supporting the exemption law. - Nearly half support a government with Arab parties abstaining from participation. - 62% demand a state commission to investigate the October 7 massacre. - Many reservists express political frustration, with some planning to cast blank votes.

Topic: politics

Entities: {"people":["Naftali Bennett","Elhanan Shkolnik","Adi Geva","Rochel Mosheiv","Ariel Morali","Sami Bibar","Mansour Abbas","Benjamin Netanyahu","Gadi Eizenkot"],"organizations":["Madgem Institute","Likud","Together","Yashar","Otzma Yehudit","Israel Beytenu","Democrats","Religious Zionism"],"places":["Israel","Gaza","Lebanon","Turkey"]}