IDF Warns MKs Three Service Laws Are Needed for Manpower Gap

Brig. Gen. Shay Tayeb, head of the IDF Personnel Directorate's planning and personnel management division, told Knesset lawmakers in a 15:21 IDT report that the army urgently needs three laws: an effective conscription framework, restoration of 36-month mandatory service and a reserve-duty law. He warned that the standing army is nearing its limit after years of multi-front combat, with the January 2027 30-month cohort gap threatening thousands of combat soldiers. The IDF says it still needs about 12,000 recruits, including thousands of fighters, even after opening adapted service tracks for Haredi soldiers. Israel should honor Torah study and observant life while passing a durable service framework that protects soldiers, families and national readiness.