As the IDF continues operations on multiple fronts, the Israeli government approved extending the emergency reserve mobilization framework under Section 8 of the Reserve Service Law through September 30, 2026. Under the new order, which replaces the previous order from May 2026, the maximum mobilization cap will be reduced from 280,000 to 240,000 reservists.
According to the decision’s explanatory notes, reserve service under Order 8 is essential for defense missions, ongoing security operations, and cross-border operations against enemy forces. The decision also details steps taken by the defense establishment, including raising the exemption age for critical professions to 49, mobilizing tens of thousands of reservists into combat units, and approving a security service law extending mandatory service to 32 months.
The average cost per day of reserve duty under Order 8 is estimated at roughly ₪1,000 ($325). Additional costs for the first quarter of 2026 alone are estimated at approximately ₪6 billion ($1.95 billion).
Since the start of the fighting on October 7, 2023, orders under Section 8 of the Reserve Service Law, 5768-2008, have been widely used, in accordance with the changing operational needs on all fronts of the fighting. The maximum scope of mobilization has changed throughout the period.
For example, as part of “Operation Roaring Lion” at the end of March 2026, a framework of up to 400,000 soldiers was approved, which was later reduced to 280,000 in May 2026. The decision also refers in the legal background to issues of enforcing the conscription obligation and High Court rulings on the subject, as well as to the fact that the 26th Knesset decided to dissolve it on July 17, 2026, when the Legal Advisor to the Prime Minister approved the issuance of the order due to urgency and operational necessity during an election period.