Israel recalls previously exempt military reservists amid force shortage
Israeli soldiers stand in order, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, near Israel's border with Gaza, in southern Israel, December 4, 2023. (Reuters Photo)
The Israeli military has announced that it has begun recalling reservists who were previously exempt from service due to a “shortage of forces,” signaling an effort to bolster its personnel amid rising demands.
In a written statement, the army confirmed that Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has ordered the return of reservists who are still of service age but had been previously exempt from military duty. “The Defense Minister (Yoav Gallant) has instructed that reservists who were exempt from military service but remain of service age be recalled due to the shortage of forces,” the statement said.
The decision comes as the military evaluates the status and operational capacity of its regular and reserve forces. According to the statement, the move is part of a broader plan to increase the number of soldiers in the army.
The military noted that once preparations are complete, applications from the recalled reservists will be accepted. Those deemed fit for return will be assigned to various units as needed.
