IDF Reserve Chief Warns of Mounting Strain Despite Expanded Force

IDF chief reserve officer Brig. Gen. Beni Ben Ari says combat manpower remains insufficient despite the reserve force growing by more than 130,000 combat and support personnel since October 7. In a newly published interview, he said four reassignment days in 2026 placed 94% of 8,059 participants, compared with 87% of 16,111 participants across eight days in 2025. He warned that repeated unexpected call-ups undermine predictability and strain reservists’ families, employment and studies. Ben Ari called for a larger military and stronger support around reservists to reduce their burden.