Israel on its way to temporarily extending mandatory IDF service

On Wednesday night, the Knesset approved the first reading of temporary provision bill extending military service from 32 months to 36 months.

The provision, effective until June 30, 2029, was supported by 56 members and opposed by 44, and it has now been forwarded to the Knesset committee for further discussion. It is unclear if 

According to the proposal, the Defense Minister will be authorized to determine by order, with the approval of the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, specific units, professions, and roles in which the regular service period will be shorter than 32 months (or 36 months during the temporary provision period), but not less than 28 months (or 32 months during the temporary provision period).

Additionally, those required to serve a period longer than 28 months (or 32 months during the temporary provision period) will receive compensation for the service period from the 29th month (or from the 33rd month during the temporary provision period) until the end of their regular service, in addition to the allowance paid under military orders.

'The temporary provision is immediately required to meet the IDF's targets'

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated, "The temporary provision is immediately required to meet the IDF's targets and to address existing security needs."

The proposal's explanatory notes highlight the historical context: "In 1995, the Defense Service Law was amended to set a regular service period of 36 months for men. In 2015, the law was amended again, reducing the regular service period for men to 32 months for a fixed period and then to 30 months."

Opposition leader MK Yair Lapid (National Unity) criticized the move, saying, "Like thieves in the night, the coalition passed in the first reading the 'money theft from soldiers' law, mistakenly called the law to extend regular service. Every soldier whose service is being extended should know that this coalition is saving money at their expense to distribute among themselves."

Chairman of the Democrats, Yair Golan, added, "Extending the service for those already serving is another disgrace from this failing government. Instead of reducing inequality in the burden and enlisting everyone for full military or civilian service, they are adding service for those already bearing the load. This is a government against the soldiers of the state."