Touring Gaza, IDF chief hints ultra-Orthodox cannot continue to evade service

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir says Israel’s security is dependent on broad national participation in the military, in comments seemingly aimed at members of the ultra-Orthodox community evading mandatory conscription.

“”We cannot accept a situation in which not all parts of society bear the burden,” Zamir said while touring Gaza earlier in the day, according to an IDF readout. “Israel’s security requires the full partnership of all segments of the people… this is the order of the hour, and we must all answer it.”

The army has repeatedly stated it is facing a shortage of about 12,000 soldiers, including 7,000 combat troops, even as it finalizes plans to expand operations and conquer Gaza City, which will involve calling up some 60,000 reservists already fatigued by nearly two years of war.

About 80,000 Haredi men between the ages of 18 and 24 are eligible for service, but have not enlisted and ultra-Orthodox leaders remain fiercely opposed to efforts to end exemptions from service that the community has enjoyed in the past.

Zamir said during the tour that the IDF’s central focus “at this time is deepening the operation in Gaza City,” while reiterating commitments to bring home the hostages, defeat Hamas, and prevent a repeat of the October 7 massacre.

“We are in a multi-front campaign and are operating powerfully on all fronts,” Zamir said, stressing that the military is prepared to act again wherever required.

Praising reservists whose call-ups were recently extended, Zamir said their sacrifice was “an inspiration to us all,” adding that conscripts, career soldiers and reservists together embody “the deepest expression of Israeli solidarity.”