IDF Conscription Conference

Over 600 days into the Swords of Iron War and following prolonged military campaigns stretching from Gaza to Iran, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) finds itself in one of the most complex periods in its history characterized by a severe manpower crisis. According to all assessments, the military urgently requires tens of thousands of additional, skilled combat soldiers to optimally fill out its ranks, ensure Israel's security, and relieve the burden placed on standing and reserve troops.

At this critical juncture, the government is grappling with one of the most sensitive and divisive social issues in Israeli history--the Conscription Law. However, while the military cries out for reinforcements, the political response appears to be more attuned to coalition considerations than to the security needs of the state. The implications are stark: the concept of a “People’s Army” is in jeopardy.

Recognizing the gravity of this moment, the Yedioth Ahronoth Group and the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) convened a special IDF Conscription Conference on July 15 at the Duhl Center, Tel Aviv to bring this burning issue to the forefront of public discourse.

Scroll down to explore the full agenda, watch all the panels, and browse the photo gallery.