Israel Extends Mandatory Military Service Amid Security Concerns

The Israeli government's security cabinet has approved extending compulsory military service for men from 32 to 36 months. This rule will apply for the next eight years. The measure is likely to be voted on by the full cabinet. Israel aims to boost manpower amid ongoing conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah.

The Israeli government's security cabinet has officially approved a plan to extend compulsory military service for men from 32 months to 36 months, according to Ynet news outlet on Friday. The new rule will remain in effect for the next eight years after a late-Thursday meeting of the security cabinet.

The measure is expected to be presented for a vote in a full cabinet meeting on Sunday, the report added. Military commanders in Israel have stressed the need for increased manpower to sustain ongoing operations against the Hamas militant group in Gaza and the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon.

In a separate development, Israel plans to issue draft notices to thousands of ultra-Orthodox seminary students who have previously been exempt from military service.

(With inputs from agencies.)