DID Press: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued a warning about a potential mass personnel exodus, following a sharp rise in resignation requests from officers and non-commissioned officers, reported Israeli media.
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, hundreds of IDF officers and NCOs have submitted requests to leave permanent service, creating what the army describes as a “broad migration of professional personnel.” Approximately 500 officers and NCOs from regular units have reportedly requested to step down, although the exact timing of these submissions remains unclear.
Military officials report that resignation requests are rising across all age groups and ranks, describing the situation as a “real human resources crisis” that has reached a critical stage. The army anticipates that the number of resignations among permanent personnel in regular units will continue to grow.
Delays by the Knesset in approving proposed legislation to increase retirement benefits for soldiers and officers by 7–11% have been cited as a key factor contributing to dissatisfaction. Resignations are mainly linked to low pay, job burnout, and the pressures associated with ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in Gaza.
Yedioth Ahronoth notes that the IDF faces serious challenges in persuading thousands of officers and NCOs to remain in permanent service. If the trend continues, it could significantly weaken the overall capacity and manpower structure of the Israeli military.