The Israel Defense Forces announced a shortage of about 12,000 soldiers, including between 6,000 and 7,500 combat troops, as ongoing fighting across seven arenas places heavy strain on personnel. Officials warned the gap could widen further if mandatory service is shortened to 30 months, potentially leaving the military without thousands more combat and technical staff.

To cope with the shortfall, the military has expanded its force structure, establishing new armored companies, battalions and reserve formations while recalling volunteers and previously exempted individuals. Despite the operational burden, motivation for combat service remains high among young men and women, with female combat enlistment rising sharply over the past decade.

The army is also investing in programs aimed at reducing attrition, particularly cases linked to non-clinical mental health challenges, which account for most early departures. A nationwide initiative funded with 70 million shekels seeks to prepare high school students for service and strengthen resilience before enlistment.

Efforts to increase enlistment among the haredi community have shown gradual progress, with recruitment numbers rising in recent years. However, tens of thousands remain in draft evasion processes, and current enlistment levels still fall short of operational needs.