IDF reserves, or miluim, refers to the reservist duty many Israelis have to do for several years after they finish their regular military service.
While many Israelis are regularly called up for reserve duty for training, on occasion the IDF can put out a mass call-up for reservists during times of conflict, as was the case following the October 7 massacre when Israel launched a war against Hamas in Gaza.
The order came after recent criticism from reservists who complained of uncertainty and the nature of the missions assigned to them.
During the incident in which Farkas was killed, another reservist in the same battalion and brigade was severely wounded.
He was killed by military aircraft during a joint operation by the IDF and Shin Bet.
The escalation of Israel’s operations in Gaza has brought new upheaval for reservists and their families, as well as renewed resentment about haredi Orthodox Jews who avoid military service.
A student who served 300 reserve days and her teammates, partners of reservists, developed an app to identify mental distress and offer instant support. “We saw the need through personal experience.”
Recent reports indicate burnout among IDF reservists, some of whom have served in multiple combat rounds for extended periods of time.
Shas MK Yinon Azulay cast the deciding vote to extend emergency IDF draft powers, sparking backlash over unclear war plans and coalition infighting.
The Israeli government decided to halt the planned large-scale ground maneuver, following the collapse of a hostage release framework and the reported killing of Sinwar in Gaza.
45% of reservists and 68% of their partners reported ongoing psychological distress, with many of them also facing severe financial difficulties.
Opposition MKs also slammed the Netanyahu administration for dragging out drafting eligible Haredi men.
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