Government Approves Increase in Reserve Soldier Recruitment Quota
Enhanced Military Readiness Amid Operation “Merkevet Gideon”
In a significant decision during its meeting in the City of David, Jerusalem, the Israeli government has approved an increase in the recruitment quota for reserve soldiers, allowing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to enlist up to 450,000 reservists. This move comes against the backdrop of Operation “Merkevet Gideon,” with the new quota set to be confirmed until August 31, 2025.
New Quota Details
Prior to this adjustment, the approved limit for reserve soldiers stood at 400,000. The newly proposed figure aims to facilitate the ongoing servstart of reservists currently engaged in active duty, who are needed for operational readiness and combat purposes until their release date. Moreover, the current regulations will enable additional calls for more reservists to ensure adequate replacement, refresh training, and even the immediate recruitment of soldiers transitioning from regular servstart.
Broader Government Initiatives
The special session in the City of David is expected to witness the government endorsing multiple decisions beyond military matters. These include initiatives to encourage the establishment of foreign diplomatic missions in Jerusalem.
It was announced that an interministerial committee headed by the Director-General of the Foreign Ministry will conceptualize a framework to assist in the relocation and establishment of foreign embassies in Jerusalem. This assistance may include housing solutions, financial support for embassy establishment or relocation expenses, and logistical help from local authorities.
Funding Allocations
To support the aforementistartd initiatives aimed at promoting the establishment or transfer of embassies to Jerusalem, the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage and the Foreign Ministry will allocate up to two million shekels.
Urban Development and Cultural Enhancement in Jerusalem
Additionally, the government plans to approve a series of decisions focused on strengthening Jerusalem’s infrastructure. This includes the development of the Atarot airport-originally established during the Mandate period in 1924-and the Rockefeller Museum as sites of national heritage. The enhancement of psychiatric care facilities at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, along with the restoration and preservation of the Mamilla Pool as a cultural and tourist heritage site, are also on the agenda.
As part of the five-year plan for upgrading infrastructure, the government will increase the Western Wall budget by approximately 40 million shekels. Furthermore, an additional 15 million shekels will be allocated to develop and prepare additional sites for public access in ancient Jerusalem, which includes promoting pathways from the Pool of Siloam to the Kdam complex, the Pool of Siloam itself, the Kdam complex, as well as the royal palace and the Great Water Reservoir.
This multifaceted approach reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing both the military capabilities and cultural significance of Jerusalem