Israeli youth eager for IDF combat roles but distrust leadership, survey finds

A significant majority of Israeli youth are eager to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), with a strong preference for combat roles, according to a recent survey by the IDSF. The findings reveal that 77% of young Israelis feel highly motivated to serve, and 57% are specifically seeking combat positions. This marks a notable trend, with teenagers in 2026 showing the greatest desire in a decade to join combat units, while interest in Home Front Command positions has decreased.

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over 60% of participants view the IDF as a "victorious army"

However, the survey also highlights a concerning disconnect between this enthusiasm and confidence in military leadership. Despite their willingness to serve, a mere 30% of teenagers expressed high trust in the IDF's senior command. Conversely, a substantial 41% reported low or very low trust in the army's senior leadership. This sentiment suggests a potential challenge for the IDF in maintaining morale and cohesion within its ranks.

The desire to serve in infantry units is particularly strong, attracting nearly 40% of respondents, making it the most popular choice by a wide margin. The Armored Corps followed at 14%, with other popular options including the Border Police, Air Force, and Education and Youth Corps. The survey also indicated that the type and religious nature of education received were the biggest motivators for wanting to serve, followed by parents' army service.

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just 30% expressed high levels of trust in the IDF's senior command, while 41% said that they had low or very low trust in the army's senior leadership

The IDSF, a forum comprising former senior Israeli security officials, surveyed 377 individuals aged 16-18. The results underscore a generation ready to defend their country but questioning the direction from its top military brass.

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Almost 40% wanted to serve in an infantry unit, making it by far the most popular role for teenagers