IDF Orders Reservists to Deposit Licensed Personal Pistols with Authorized Dealers During Service

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued a new directive requiring reservists in combat units who hold licensed personal pistols not to bring their firearms to reserve duty. Instead, they must deposit their weapons with authorized arms dealers, a process that involves significant monthly fees. This policy was revealed by the religious Zionist weekly magazine Matzav HaRuach, which reported that during a recent briefing, reservist officers were instructed by their battalion commander that bringing personal pistols to service is prohibited and that the soldiers must comply with the law.

The directive aligns with guidelines from the Ministry of Public Security, which mandate that licensed pistol owners who will be absent from their homes for more than 48 hours, without any adult household members remaining, must store their firearms with authorized dealers. Additionally, the firearm safes used must meet specific security standards. The IDF confirmed the new policy, explaining it as a command decision driven by safety considerations. They emphasized that during operational duties, reservists have access to IDF-issued weapons appropriate to their roles and missions.

Reservists who challenged the order were told there are no exceptions or room for debate. However, the IDF spokesperson noted that in specific cases and according to operational needs, exemptions may be granted. The new rule means many reservists will incur extra costs to store their personal weapons instead of carrying them during their entire reserve service period.