On Tuesday, the IDF began inducting members of its new class of conscripts, who, unlike their predecessors, can expect to serve for 30 rather than 32 months. The cut is the second phase of a 2015 measure that reduced service from a full three years; however, the Knesset has effectively given itself a year to reinstate the 32-month term. Yoav Limor argues that it should avail itself of this option:

Since the year began, the IDF has stepped up its attacks on Iranian positions in Syria, striking more targets and going deeper into Syrian territory than usual. Meanwhile, Tehran has increased its enrichment of uranium, moving ever closer to building nuclear weapons. Efraim Inbar addresses the situation in depth: