An entire generation of Israeli reservists faces prolonged financial hardship and career disruption as extended military service since October 7th continues to drain resources. A new study by the Tauber Institute has warned of far-reaching consequences, with approximately 70,000 students having served in the reserves over the past year whilst juggling their education. The research found that average daily pay for reserve service has plummeted by roughly 30%, threatening to erode earnings by up to 20% for many reservists. The financial impact extends well beyond immediate wages, with many young Israelis describing a sense of deep uncertainty about their futures. “Our entire lives have become shrouded in fog,” one participant told researchers. “An entire generation simply cannot see any horizon ahead of us.” The delayed studies, interrupted training programmes, and stalled career progression reveal the human cost of sustained military mobilisation on Israel’s young professional class. Universities and employers have raised concerns about the long-term economic and educational consequences, as thousands of students struggle to balance reserve duty with their academic and professional development.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.