Israeli government to extend mandatory military service

Israel’s government has approved a plan to temporarily extend compulsory military service for men to 36 months, the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed. 

The measure will now go to parliament for approval.

Should it pass, the 36-month service will be effective immediately, for a period of five years, according to a copy of the bill posted online. Currently, there is a 32-month requirement.

According to the bill, the move comes because of the military’s "current needs following the events of October 7".

The law would also apply to soldiers currently deployed, lengthening their rotations.