IDF Prepares to Release 10,000 Reservists Over Budget Gap

Current July 6 Israel-time reporting says the IDF is preparing to release about 10,000 reservists by the end of July because approved funding still does not cover wartime costs. The reported step would reduce reserve manpower from roughly 60,000 to 50,000 and save about NIS 2.5 billion by year-end, yet military officials say the defense gap still stands near NIS 40 billion. Netanyahu approved an immediate NIS 15 billion transfer, while another NIS 25 billion is left for later approval amid election uncertainty. Israel cannot let budget timing or stalled service legislation weaken readiness; reservists deserve relief, but border defense, munitions and mandatory-service fixes need disciplined funding now.