Israel faces rising economic costs from IDF reserve duty and enhanced security efforts

A new report from the Israeli Finance Ministry’s chief economist, Shmuel Abramzon, indicates that one month of IDF reserve duty for a non-Chareidi Jewish man aged 31 to 39 costs the economy approximately 68,000 shekels, or about $21,000. This is an increase from the previous estimate of 54,000 shekels. For reservists aged 22 to 30, the monthly cost has risen to roughly $12,000. With approximately 60,000 soldiers serving in the reserves each month, the Bank of Israel estimates the monthly economic cost at roughly 2.3 billion shekels, or $710 million.

In the Jordan Valley, efforts are underway to bolster civilian emergency response capabilities. IDF reservist and nonprofit leader Chaim Malespin has partnered with the Jordan Valley Regional Council and SkyNext UAV Solutions to provide volunteers with specialized drone training. The initiative aims to improve the detection of infiltrations, assist in search-and-rescue operations, and enhance preparedness for both security incidents and natural disasters.