Israeli Reservists’ Families Struggle with Repeated Call-Ups and Criticize Haredi Exemptions and Religious Zionist Support

Since October 7, 2023, many Israeli reservist families have faced ongoing challenges due to repeated military call-ups, with some reservists serving up to 80-100 days annually. Naama Yedid, a reservist’s wife and member of the 'Partnership for Service' forum, described the heavy toll on family life, including the anxiety experienced by their children. Her five-year-old son, for example, often expresses fear about his father’s safety, asking, "What will we do if Dad dies in the army?" Despite the fears, there is pride in the service and the values it represents.

Yedid detailed the difficulties balancing work and family amid frequent deployments, noting that her husband recently finished a PhD and started a new job just before being called up again. She highlighted the supportive work environment he found, contrasting it with other workplaces that might discriminate against reservists. As a nurse working shifts, Yedid also emphasized the importance of mutual support among colleagues during these times.

She strongly criticized the exemption of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) Jews from military service, calling it "a disgrace" and urging them to join the effort, framing it as a vital religious and national duty. Yedid also condemned the Religious Zionist Party, particularly its leader Bezalel Smotrich, for backing legislation that exempts tens of thousands from service. Although she appreciates the party’s support for settlement activities in the West Bank, she said their stance on the draft law feels like a betrayal to those serving.

Yedid expressed political frustration, saying she feels politically homeless and is reconsidering her voting choices ahead of the 2026 elections. She hopes the Religious Zionist Party will recognize their mistake after the elections. Her testimony reflects the broader strain on Israeli society caused by the ongoing conflict and the contentious debate over military service exemptions.