Israel Turns to Diaspora Recruitment Amid Soldier Shortage

Israeli Military Faces Critical Personnel Deficit

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confront a severe personnel shortage, prompting plans to recruit Jewish youth from diaspora communities, primarily in the United States and France. Army Radio Galei Tzahal reports this unprecedented move coincides with preparations for a major offensive on Gaza City.

Reservist Mobilization Proposal

Military leadership is considering mobilizing 80,000-100,000 reservists despite economic concerns. Former General Giora Eiland notes each reservist costs Israel approximately €400 daily, creating unsustainable financial strain for prolonged operations.

Political-Military Tensions Escalate

Defense Minister Israel Katz overruled IDF Chief Eyal Zamir's siege strategy for Gaza, demanding full-force operations. This disagreement reflects deepening rifts within Israel's security establishment. Simultaneously, mass protests surge in Tel Aviv, with hostage families accusing the government of inaction.

Reservist Exhaustion Grows

Chatham House analyst Yossi Mekelberg reveals reservist turnout has plummeted from 100% to 50% since the conflict's start. "After 400+ days of service, fatigue and moral doubts are eroding willingness," Mekelberg states.

Haredi Exemption Ends

The crisis intensifies following Israel's Supreme Court June 2024 ruling ending decades-long military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Haredim. While conscription of Haredi men began in July 2025, their integration remains limited, contributing to current shortages.

Diaspora Recruitment Scale

Initial diaspora recruitment targets just 700 soldiers annually - a fraction of the 60,000+ Haredi men currently exempted. Military analysts question whether this can offset losses from Israel's longest continuous conflict, now in its 22nd month.