IDF Changes: Shorter Conscript Service, Longer for Special Forces!
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is making significant adjustments to its deployment policies, impacting both conscripted troops and special forces units. These changes aim to address manpower challenges that have arisen during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Conscripts See Service Time Reduced
In a move that will likely be welcomed by many, the IDF has announced it will discontinue the practice of extending conscripted troops' service by four months. Since the beginning of the war, the IDF had been delaying the release of these soldiers, effectively transitioning them into reserve duty for an additional four months. However, starting in November, this policy will be reversed. Soldiers drafted in March 2023 will now be released in November of this year, rather than having their service extended into March 2026.
Special Forces to Serve Longer
While conscripts will see a reduction in their service time, the opposite is true for special forces units. Soldiers currently in training for these elite units will be required to serve an additional four months as "career soldiers," beginning in March 2027. Furthermore, future recruits joining special forces units will be required to commit to an additional eight months (in reconnaissance units) or a full year (in commando units) of service as career soldiers.
Phased Implementation for Special Forces
IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir has clarified that these extended service commitments will not apply to current special forces units. Soldiers currently serving will continue their duties as before. The extended service requirements will be phased in gradually for those still in training or yet to be enlisted.
These adjustments reflect the IDF's efforts to optimize its manpower allocation and ensure the continued effectiveness of its forces in the face of evolving security challenges.