Iran Press/West Asia: The Israeli military says the troop shortage stems primarily from mounting casualties and injuries since the start of the Gaza offensive and the expansion of the conflict into Lebanon.
The Israeli military's active-duty personnel are projected to be at 81% of required strength next year. Extending mandatory service to three years would reportedly increase that figure to 96%.
According to Israeli military figures, the mechanized brigades are facing a personnel shortage, currently operating with only 74% of required strength.
The same data indicates an 85% return rate for reservists this year. The military is reportedly preparing for a large-scale call-up of reservists next year, even as current reservists have already served an average of 70 to 72 days.
Since the war began, 793 military personnel have been killed. Of these, 370 died since the Gaza ground offensive began, and another 40 since the start of the incursion into Lebanon.
Observers say that given the heavy censorship, the Israeli government's casualty figures are unreliable and that the actual number of casualties among occupying forces is likely significantly higher than officially reported.
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