Israeli occupation army to arm 10,000 reservists with weapons to be kept at home

OCCUPIED QUDS, Dec. 21 (YPA) – The Israeli occupation military has approved a significant policy change regarding the arming of reserve forces, involving the provision of long rifles and combat gear to approximately 10,000 reservists to be kept permanently in their homes.

Officials stated the move is based on lessons learned from the events of October 7, 2023.

The decision primarily affects the newly formed “David” Division (Division 96), which is responsible for the eastern front. The division consists mainly of reservists aged 40 to 60 with previous combat experience.

The policy aims to enable these forces to respond within less than an hour to security developments, such as coordinated attacks or infiltrations, acting as a “second line of defense” to support regular units.

Reservists have begun receiving upgraded M4 rifles, vests, and helmets. They are required to install specialized safes in their homes under strict regulations. Distribution is contingent upon security and psychological screenings, as well as several weeks of training.

This move represents a radical shift from previous military policies that strictly limited the storage of long rifles in private homes due to concerns over theft or accidents. The occupation army intends to complete the arming process for the entire division over the coming year.

YPA