Tel aviv: The Israeli army has initiated a substantial reduction in the call-up of reserve soldiers, as reported by Israeli media, highlighting the financial challenges currently faced by the military.

According to Anadolu Agency, Yedioth Ahronoth reported that this move signifies a decline in military engagements on various fronts. The army has decided to decrease the reserve force and the issuance of Order 8 call-up notices, a mechanism that enables the rapid mobilization of reservists during emergencies. This system has been frequently utilized since the onset of Israel's conflict in the Gaza Strip in October 2023.

The reduction in reserve forces will be implemented gradually, varying by operational sector based on ongoing assessments. Last week, reservists were informed about a significant decrease in Order 8 emergency call-up notices, with one unit indicating a 50% reduction in personnel starting next week. Additionally, nonessential activities deemed unnecessary for operational needs will also see cuts.

These reductions will impact multiple units and operational sectors, extending beyond regional defense units responsible for local security. Military officials cited by the newspaper stated that the reductions reflect a decreased operational need for certain reserve forces as military activities diminish and planned missions are reassessed.

Since the war on the Gaza Strip began in 2023, the Israeli army has heavily relied on reservists, with military actions extending to Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran. Israel Hayom noted on July 5 that the army is set to release thousands of reservists by the end of the month due to increasing financial pressure.

The newspaper anticipates a decline in active duty reservists from approximately 60,000 to around 50,000. This reduction occurs amid a severe funding crisis within Israel's military, following a significant rise in operational expenses, resulting in a budget deficit estimated at tens of billions of shekels.

Hebrew media outlets, including Yedioth Ahronoth and Calcalist, have reported that the cuts will affect reserve forces assigned to the regional defense system, including personnel guarding settlements around Gaza and the occupied West Bank, as well as staff levels at military headquarters. The reductions come amidst a dispute between Israel's Defense and Finance ministries over the defense budget size.