Defense Minister Katz proposes extending IDF service to 36 months

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to increase the length of compulsory military service from the current 3032 months to 36 months, beginning in the 2026 fiscal year. The reform is expected to affect soldiers currently enlisted, including combat troops scheduled to complete their duty in 2026, who may be required to postpone their discharge.

According to Katzs office, extending mandatory service would add approximately ten thousand additional service days each year, helping offset reductions in the reserve system. The government aims to cut the number of reserve personnel from 60,000 to 40,000 annually, with regular soldiers intended to fill the operational gaps.

The planned extension of service comes alongside ongoing efforts to legislate exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community, while simultaneously reducing state spending tied to reserve duty. Katz has directed the IDF to update its strategic planning to align with the reduced reserve structure and extended conscription term.

The Defense Ministry confirmed that Israels defense budget for 2026 has been set at NIS 112 billion, an increase from the previously drafted NIS 90 billion.

Author: Sophia Brooks