More months, more trauma? Netanyahu extends IDF draft as Iran war crushes Israel’s young soldiers

Israel's Knesset has approved legislation extending mandatory military service for most male recruits to 32 months, citing increased manpower needs as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue operations on multiple fronts. Military officials have warned of troop shortages and say thousands of additional recruits are needed, including combat personnel, to meet operational demands. The new law is intended to help maintain force levels through June 2029 and ease pressure on both active-duty and reserve units.