The IDF has released new figures showing an extraordinary surge in the number of female recruits choosing combat roles during the March-April draft cycle. Turnout rates in several key combat and intelligence units exceeded 100%, reflecting a historic wave of motivation and willingness among young Israelis—especially women—to serve in high-risk, high-impact military positions. The trend underscores a generational shift in the public’s engagement with national defense, particularly as Israel faces ongoing regional threats.
In a striking testament to rising patriotism and resilience, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has revealed explosive growth in female enlistment to combat units during its most recent draft cycle, covering March and April. The numbers not only shattered expectations—they redefined them.
According to IDF data, the turnout among female conscripts for frontline combat and intelligence roles has surged to unprecedented levels, in some cases far exceeding the military's actual operational intake needs. The IDF traditionally over-allocates draft slots to prepare for last-minute reassignments or withdrawals, but this cycle’s figures far outpaced even the most optimistic forecasts.
The Border Defense Corps’ light infantry units—a grueling assignment known for intense operational demands—saw a 129% turnout of women, a figure that speaks volumes about the shift in societal perceptions around gender and battlefield roles. Even more impressive, the Combat Intelligence Collection units, home to elite surveillance operations and critical intelligence work, recorded a 132% turnout.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited an army induction center this morning, meeting with newly enlisted female surveillance soldiers — his first such visit since assuming the role of chief.
— Ephraim Dovid (@EphyDude613) April 6, 2025
Addressing the recruits, Zamir emphasized the critical role of female ... pic.twitter.com/EYN6QWbigo
The numbers didn’t stop there. The Artillery Corps, long viewed as one of the more physically taxing branches, clocked in a whopping 142% female turnout. The Air Force's air defense units—a pivotal part of Israel's layered security network—saw a 115% rate, while Search and Rescue units in the Home Front Command surged to 132%. Even the Border Police, often operating in the most volatile zones of Judea and Samaria, saw a 107% turnout from female recruits.
These figures suggest a major cultural pivot, particularly as Israel continues to navigate threats on multiple fronts—from Gaza and Lebanon to cyber and psychological warfare. The IDF emphasized that this draft cycle reaffirmed the “high motivation of the enlistees to take an active and meaningful part in the various challenges facing the IDF.”
In memory of the IDF female soldiers who fell in battle in this war while bravely defending the homeland until their last breath.
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) April 23, 2025
May their memory be forever a blessing. pic.twitter.com/K0ocHHXcOQ
In a significant development, the military also piloted a groundbreaking new program that allows female recruits to serve in Unit 504, a highly secretive division of Military Intelligence that specializes in HUMINT (human intelligence gathering). The inclusion of women in such a unit underscores the IDF’s evolving operational doctrine and commitment to integrating talent wherever it appears.
Male conscripts were no less committed. According to the IDF, all combat-related drafts for male soldiers also exceeded 100%, proving that the drive to protect Israel’s sovereignty remains a unifying force across the spectrum of Israeli youth.
In a region where enemies continuously test Israel’s strength, this surge in voluntary enlistment—especially among women—is more than just a statistical anomaly. It is a powerful reminder that the next generation of Israeli warriors is not only ready but eager to rise to the challenge.
