Israeli army faces ammunition strain after years of war

The Israeli army has consumed in less than three years an amount of ammunition comparable to what it used during the preceding three decades, according to a Sunday report by Israeli newspaper Maariv, which highlighted mounting pressure on Israel’s military manpower, equipment and finances.

Air force and armored units under pressure

Maariv reported that Israeli Air Force operations during the period reached a level equivalent to approximately nine years of activity under normal operating conditions. Tanks and armored personnel carriers have also required thousands of engine replacements, reflecting the sustained operational tempo.

While military equipment can be repaired or replaced, the newspaper said the impact on personnel presents a more difficult challenge. It reported 1,138 deaths among Israeli army personnel, excluding other security agencies, while 11,730 service members have been officially recognized with physical or psychological injuries.

Reservist mobilization carries major costs

The number of personnel affected by psychological trauma could rise further, according to the report. Maariv also pointed to signs of fatigue among career soldiers, saying some who were offered command assignments chose less demanding rear positions or left military service altogether.

Israel is maintaining an average of 53,000 reservists on active duty each day. Maariv estimated that reserve service cost around 2.1 billion shekels, or $703 million, during a single month last year. The newspaper compared that expenditure with the estimated cost of seven F-35 fighter aircraft or 70 Merkava tanks.

Multiple fronts stretch Israeli forces

Israeli forces remain deployed in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, areas Maariv grouped into three “security belts,” as well as in the occupied West Bank. The newspaper said the West Bank currently requires the largest share of military manpower.

Five Israeli battalions are stationed along the so-called yellow line in Gaza, covering about 60% of the enclave, while two reinforced battalions operate near the border. Additional forces remain assigned to readiness and regional defense duties.

US military aid becomes another concern

Maariv questioned how long Israel can sustain such a broad deployment without imposing further pressure on its military and budget. The newspaper also raised questions about continued US military assistance, noting that the current agreement expires in 2028 after providing approximately $33 billion over a decade.

The report criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indication that Israel may seek a future US assistance package worth only about half the current amount. It said senior Israeli officials had previously expected the Trump administration to consider renewing military assistance for another 10 years at a similar level.

Maariv concluded that Israel may eventually have to scale back its deployments to protect military resources and reduce the strain on its personnel.