IDF to reduce number of nonessential troops at bases

The Israel Defense Forces says it will be scaling back the number of nonessential soldiers on bases beginning tomorrow in an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kohavi ordered the heads of the military’s branches, directorates and regional commands to assess how many “homefront” soldiers and workers — who serve in largely administrative and other less critical positions — they actually require in order to keep their units functioning.

“An emphasis will be placed on bringing in soldiers and workers who are necessary solely to preserve readiness, functional continuity and operational processes,” the military says.

The IDF says this is due to go into effect tomorrow. Soldiers will be informed whether or not to arrive to their bases by their commanders.

“Additional instructions will be sent out as needed,” the IDF says.

— Judah Ari Gross