Why did Israeli military stop its mobility unit pilot program for females?

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ended a pilot program for female soldiers to serve in combat mobility units , following a decision by IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. The program, which began in November 2024, was halted after a six-month evaluation period, with the IDF citing challenges in meeting combat and physical fitness requirements for women.

Combat mobility units are responsible for delivering equipment and supplies to infantry forces in enemy territory and evacuating wounded soldiers, including under fire.

The IDF reported that the 34 female soldiers who started the training demonstrated “very high” professional abilities, comparable to male soldiers. However, the evaluation found that the female trainees did not meet the necessary combat and physical fitness standards. Of the initial group, only 23 remained after six months.

The IDF also noted potential health risks for female soldiers due to the increasing physical demands of the training.

Following the findings, Zamir ordered the program’s termination. The female soldiers who participated will be reassigned to other combat or noncombat roles, based on their preferences. The IDF plans to launch a new pilot program next year to explore alternative infantry roles for female soldiers, The Times of Israel reported.

The IDF stated that over 90% of its roles are open to women, with female soldiers comprising approximately 20% of combat troops. The termination of the combat mobility program marks a shift in the military’s approach to integrating women into specialised combat roles.