The IDF is warning of a severe combat manpower crisis, growing reserve force exhaustion, and possible damage to operational readiness in the coming years. According to the data, the military currently lacks around 8,000 combat soldiers, and the gap could grow to about 10,500 without extending mandatory service to three years. The army is urging rapid approval of a draft law for ultra-Orthodox Israelis, a new reserve service law, and an extension of compulsory service, while stressing these measures would provide only a partial solution.

Israel marked Memorial Day with a nationwide siren and a central ceremony at the Western Wall honoring 25,648 fallen soldiers and victims of terror. President Isaac Herzog called the war a national test, while IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir stressed the need for shared responsibility across society. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed bereaved families, emphasizing both the deep loss and the unifying meaning of the day.

Greece signed a deal to purchase weapons systems from Israel, including the PULS artillery system from Elbit, valued at about 2.3 billion shekels. The system is designed to launch rockets and missiles at various ranges. Defense Minister Israel Katz said the deal reflects deepening security cooperation between the countries and strong confidence in Israel’s defense capabilities.

Studies in schools and kindergartens are set to resume on Sunday in capsule groups, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu adopted the Education Ministry’s plan and rejected Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s proposal to place teachers on forced leave and make up the days in the summer. The return will be gradual and subject to Home Front Command guidelines. In higher-risk areas, learning will take place only in protected spaces, while elsewhere it will be allowed near shelters. Expanding gathering limits is also being considered.

Nahal Reconnaissance Unit fighters killed the militants responsible for the deaths of four of their comrades last week in southern Lebanon, during close-quarters combat in the village of Beit Lif. Intelligence later confirmed the identities of the militants. Nahal Brigade forces continue operating in the area, targeting militants and locating weapons and terror infrastructure. The brigade commander stated that the mission continues alongside the heavy price paid.

A magnitude 4.5 earthquake was felt this morning in northern Israel, mainly between Haifa and Nahariya, with no reports of injuries or damage. The epicenter was in the Mediterranean Sea at a depth of about 14 km, off the coast of southern Lebanon near Tyre and Sidon. Residents reported noticeable shaking. According to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre and Israel’s Geological Survey, it was a moderate event.