Israel IDF Plans Reserve Reductions as US Aid Uncertainty Grows

Israel is contemplating a cut of about 10,000 reserve soldiers, lowering the reserve force from roughly 60,000 to 50,000, in an effort to curb defense spending that has surged due to operations in Gaza, the West Bank and other fronts. The move is part of a broader effort to address a budget shortfall after the government approved an additional 15 billion shekels (US$5 billion) – far less than the 40 billion shekels the IDF requested – and amid doubts over the renewal of U.S. security aid that currently provides about $3.8 billion a year.

Facing the funding gap, the IDF is preparing cuts to several security missions, including community‑security squads in Judea and Samaria, units along the Lebanon and Syrian borders, and a reduction in reservists serving in headquarters roles. Simultaneously, a scheduled reduction in compulsory service from 32 to 30 months threatens to force the closure of regular combat units and shift more burden onto reservists. An IDF senior officer lamented the situation, saying: “The spectacle of a government gripped by frenzy … is hard to watch.” The financial constraints also loom over planned purchases of additional F‑35 and F‑15I fighter squadrons.

These steps reflect Israel’s attempt to balance operational readiness with fiscal pressures while awaiting a decision on future U.S. assistance.