This document examines the impact of the "Iron Swords" War (beginning October 7, 2023) on the motivation of Israeli youth to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Through longitudinal research spanning the past decade, with a particular focus on recent developments, we analyse how this unprecedented conflict has affected national identity, threat perception, and service motivation among young Israelis aged 15-19. The research reveals significant trends in youth attitudes toward military service, the influence of family background, religious beliefs, and geographical factors, all within the context of Israel's evolving security challenges and societal debates about mandatory service. Combining data from multiple research waves with the latest findings from April 2024, this analysis provides crucial insights into how the current conflict is reshaping youth perspectives on military service and national identity.

1. Introduction: The Unique Context of the "Iron Swords" War

Throughout Israel's brief history, wars have typically stimulated significant recruitment among youth, particularly for combat roles. However, since the early 2000s, motivation for IDF service has fluctuated, with the impact of military conflicts varying over time. Between major conflicts, the warrior ethos tends to fade, with military confrontations taking the form of targeted operations—many involving intelligence, firepower, air forces,…