Knesset Keeps Mandatory IDF Service at 32 Months

The Knesset gave final approval late Thursday to Amendment 29 to the Defense Service Law, preventing a planned reduction in mandatory service and keeping the term at 32 months. The bill passed second and third readings with 43 lawmakers in favor, 12 opposed and one abstention. The temporary provision preserves the current service length as Israel's military confronts manpower pressure across multiple fronts. The final vote completed the legislative process after the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee advanced the measure earlier this week, while the IDF had sought a longer 36-month term.