IDF expected to make historic change for more inclusive combat soldier profile
While there have been numerous reports over several months suggesting that such a change might be approved, KAN News reported first on Sunday that the decision has finally gone through.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is set to make a significant alteration to its criteria for determining eligibility for combat roles, aiming to address a critical shortage of soldiers. The minimum required score for candidacy will be reduced from 72 out of 100 to 70, a change that will allow many soldiers currently excluded due to medical conditions to remain in combat units.
This decision, which has been under discussion for several months, is expected to bolster the military's capacity to meet the IDF's current shortfall of 7,000 combat fighters and a broader 10,000-12,000 soldier requirement. While this move has been met with controversy, officials believe it represents a pragmatic short-term solution to the ongoing challenge posed by Israel's ongoing security threats, particularly following Hamas's October 7, 2023 invasion.
The IDF has not commented on the implementation of these new standards, leaving room for speculation about potential resistance or delays in the policy's execution.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
