Israel’s reservists protect us. Who protects them?

In times of crisis, Israel turns to its reservists – our nation’s backbone, defenders, and unsung heroes. These men and women leave behind jobs, families, and routines to answer the call of duty, often at a moment’s notice. They put their lives on hold to protect the state, demonstrating unparalleled dedication and courage.

But while our reservists protect us, who protects them? The answer, sadly, is that far too many face immense financial and emotional burdens alone. From lost wages to mounting household expenses, the pressures of service weigh heavily on both reservists and their families.

For those in lower-income brackets, the challenges are particularly acute. Without sufficient government support, some reservists find themselves at risk of financial instability jeopardizing their livelihoods and their ability to focus fully on the critical missions they undertake. This gap in support is not just a private hardship; it’s a national failing.

A national duty to protect reservists

While the public rightly lauds reservists for their service, applause is not enough. Meaningful change requires a reevaluation of how we, as a nation, support those who step forward to defend us.

The Israeli government must act. Establishing a comprehensive safety net for reservists is not a luxury; it is a necessity. This includes creating financial assistance programs to ease the immediate strain of service, bolstering job security measures, and ensuring that reservists are not penalized in their careers for answering the nation’s call.

Policies such as targeted tax relief and enhanced pensions can also play a transformative role, recognizing the sacrifices reservists make and helping them regain stability when their service ends. These measures, if implemented thoughtfully, will not only protect our reservists but will also strengthen the resilience of Israel’s defense forces as a whole.

Other nations provide compelling examples of what’s possible. In the United States, for instance, reservists benefit from robust employment protections and financial support mechanisms that Israel can adapt to meet its unique needs. Learning from these models would help ensure that our reservists receive the recognition and resources they deserve.

The power of collective responsibility

Yuval Silber. (Courtesy)

At Ogen, we have stepped in to bridge the gap where systemic support is lacking. Through the Yuval Fund, named in memory of Yuval Silber – a reservist who lost his life in service—we offer interest-free loans and holistic financial guidance to reservists and their families. The fund provides interest-free loans of up to 50,000 shekels (approximately $13,500 USD). Loans are available with a five-year repayment term and immediate access—helping families stay afloat without falling into debt.

These resources help families navigate the financial challenges that often accompany reserve duty, offering immediate relief and long-term resilience. However, philanthropy alone cannot fill the gap. The government must take the lead, transforming public appreciation into meaningful, sustainable support.

Honoring their sacrifice

Yuval Silber’s story reminds us of the profound dedication that defines Israel’s reservists. Yuval returned to serve even before being officially called, leaving Thailand during his trip to defend his homeland. His sacrifice is a stark reminder of the price reservists pay to protect Israel.

In his memory, and in honor of all those who serve, we must do more. We must ensure that the brave men and women of Israel’s reserves have the support they need to fulfill their vital roles without fear of financial ruin.

The time to act is now. By investing in the well-being of our reservists, we are investing in the future of Israel itself.