It appears to be final – the Shaked Committee will not agree to the IDF recommendation to extend mandatory service for women in the IDF from 24 to 28 months. Chairwoman Ayelet Shaked agreed to the IDF recommendation to curtail mandatory service of men from 36 to 32 months, but refuses to lengthen women’s service.

Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon explains this will create a manpower shortage for personnel officials curtailed the service of men based on the lengthening of women’s service. Nevertheless, Shaked is adamant in her refusal.

The Shaked Committee however has agreed that beginning in 2016 the defense minister may exercise his authority and act unilaterally to lengthen military service for women.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)