Media: Combat-weary IDF reservists call for defined terms in latest mobilisation

On May 5, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) initiated the call-up of thousands of reservists as part of a planned escalation of military operations in the Gaza Strip. The decision, marking a significant shift in operational posture, aims to bolster IDF capacity in multiple theatres.

According to the report by Israeli media outlet Walla, a portion of the newly mobilised reservists will be deployed across various fronts to replace conscript soldiers, while others are expected to take part in direct missions within Gaza itself, Caliber.Az reports.

IDF Chief of the General Staff Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir addressed commanders of reservist units, saying, “The expansion of combat activity will include territorial occupation and extended presence in the area. This is intended as a large-scale effort to deprive Hamas of its control over humanitarian aid and the civilian population.” He emphasised that such operations are designed to help create conditions conducive to the release of hostages.

Senior members of the General Staff held discussions with brigade commanders from the reserve forces. According to military sources, these commanders submitted multiple requests to the high command related to service conditions, bureaucratic hurdles, and the urgent need to modernise equipment and weapons systems.

General Zamir reportedly instructed that most of these requests be addressed immediately. He underscored that the IDF is now launching a decisive campaign against Hamas that could help facilitate progress in hostage negotiations, which he described as the military’s top strategic objective.

Reservists recalled for service were informed that the IDF had previously made every effort to avoid large-scale mobilisations. The decision to call them up was made only after all diplomatic efforts had been exhausted.

Meanwhile, officers within reservist units have reportedly expressed concerns in private briefings. Many noted that a significant number of reservists requested that the IDF clearly define the duration of their service in advance, instead of issuing open-ended or indefinite terms. According to the officers, this uncertainty has harmed morale and undermined willingness to report for duty.

Commanders also stressed that the majority of the recalled reservists have already participated in three or four rounds of combat since the start of the war. This includes platoon leaders, company commanders, deputy battalion commanders, and battalion commanders.

“This is no longer just burnout,” one officer said. “It’s tangible harm being done to the reservists—harm that the IDF is currently unable to compensate for.”

By Tamilla Hasanova