Tel aviv: The Israeli army is set to arm approximately 10,000 reserve soldiers with firearms kept permanently in their homes. This measure is described as a lesson learned from the events of October 7, 2023, according to local media reports.

According to Anadolu Agency, the plan focuses on Division 'David' (96), a unit formed about a year ago that recruits older reservists, typically aged between 40 to 60, who volunteer to return to service after completing their reserve commitments. These soldiers will be equipped with an M4 or upgraded M16 rifle, magazines, a combat vest, and a helmet, all delivered to their homes to facilitate immediate deployment to their battalion sector in emergencies. The weapons will be secured in large safes provided by the army.

The daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that keeping rifles at home year-round aims to significantly reduce response times in future emergencies. Under the new plan, reservists will wear uniforms only for several weeks each year, meaning the rifles will remain in their personal possession most of the time while they are not on active duty.

Israeli military officials pointed to the October 7 events as a pivotal lesson, leading to a major shift from previous policies. Before this change, many soldiers, including combat troops, were prohibited from taking weapons home due to concerns over theft or safety incidents during leave.

Israel maintains a force of about 400,000 reserve soldiers, according to Yedioth Ahronoth. Since the Gaza war began in October 2023, Israeli military data indicates that 923 officers and soldiers have been killed. Meanwhile, nearly 71,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed, and over 171,000 injured in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 2023.

Despite a ceasefire that commenced on October 10, Israel has been accused of violating the agreement by not permitting the agreed quantities of medical aid trucks, which the health ministry has termed as exacerbating a critical and ongoing health emergency.