The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated a new call-up of tens of thousands of reservists, a move that is intensifying a national debate over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The mobilization comes as the IDF prepares for an expanded offensive in Gaza City, one of the last areas not under its full control. This new phase of the war, which analysts predict will continue for many months, is placing immense strain on the reservists and highlighting a deep ideological rift within the country.
Reservists Express Hesitation, but Few Refuse
Many reservists interviewed by The Guardian expressed significant personal and ideological reservations about returning to active duty. Combat medic Aviad Yisraeli, for instance, stated, “We are dying now for no reason,” while acknowledging the difficulty of ending the war with Hamas still in power and hostages still held. Despite these doubts, few reservists indicated they would officially refuse the call-up. A 47-year-old paratrooper, who has served over 450 days since the October 7, 2023 attacks, admitted to serving with a “heavy heart” but felt a deep sense of responsibility to his battalion, which he considers family.
Public Opinion and Societal Strain
The divided sentiment among soldiers mirrors the broader Israeli public. A July poll revealed that three-quarters of Israelis favor a deal to release the hostages, and more than half are dissatisfied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership of the war. Additionally, a recent poll showed that nearly three-quarters of Jewish Israelis agree with the government’s claim that “there are no innocents in Gaza,” reflecting a strong conviction that the offensive is justified.
The extensive mobilization, which has seen some reservists serve up to 700 days, has led to significant societal and personal costs. Many have reported business failures and relationship breakdowns, with a recent survey indicating that 12% show signs of PTSD. The economic impact is also substantial. These strains have further exacerbated tensions over the exemption of the ultra-Orthodox community from military service, with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir stating, “We cannot accept a situation in which not all parts of society bear the burden.”
