Israeli Government Approves New Reserve Call-Up Cap of 240,000 Until September 2026

In response to ongoing security threats and operational needs across multiple fronts, the Israeli government has approved an extension of Reserve Service Order 8 until September 30, 2026. This order, which governs the call-up of reservists under the Reserve Service Law, will reduce the maximum reserve recruitment cap from 280,000 to 240,000 soldiers. The new order will replace the previous one set to expire in May 2026.

The decision reflects the continued importance of reservists in defense, routine security, and border operations against enemy forces. The government also highlighted additional defense measures, including raising the exemption age for critical professions to 49, recruiting tens of thousands of reservists into combat units, and extending mandatory service to 32 months under the Security Service Law.

Financially, the average daily cost of reserve service under Order 8 is estimated at about 1,000 new Israeli shekels, with additional expenses in the first quarter of 2026 alone projected at approximately 6 billion shekels. Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023, extensive use of Order 8 has been made to meet evolving operational demands. The maximum recruitment cap has fluctuated, peaking at 400,000 during "Operation Roaring Lion" in late March 2026 before being reduced.

The government’s decision also addresses legal considerations related to enforcement of the reserve duty and Supreme Court rulings, noting that the 26th Knesset will dissolve on July 17, 2026. The government legal advisor approved the order’s issuance due to its urgency and operational necessity during the election period.