In Israel, there is a special group of soldiers who serve without close family members in the country—young people who have partly immigrated from abroad or, for family reasons, have no parents or siblings in Israel. Despite these personal challenges, they fulfill their military service, are often assigned to demanding units, and according to the military, make a decisive contribution to success in the current security situation.

More than just numbers

According to the military, around 7,000 “Lone Soldiers” are serving in the IDF, with about one-third of them in combat units such as infantry and other frontline troops. Many of them came specifically because of their desire to immigrate to Israel and serve in the army, consciously accepting the challenges of life without family support.

Last year, approximately 1,050 of these soldiers from Jewish communities in the Diaspora joined the IDF, including one-third from the United States, followed by France, Russia, Ukraine, Australia, Germany, and Spain. These young people did not decide to serve only because of the war, but in many cases already beforehand, out of a deep sense of belonging to Israel.

The length of their service varies depending on age and program—some serve shortened terms, while others complete full service like their comrades with family support.

The IDF emphasizes its commitment to providing special support to these soldiers. The head of the Lone Soldiers Department, Major Lior Peretz Sheleg, said: “We are committed to ensuring that no Lone Soldier ever stands alone.” He added that the military greatly appreciates their “meaningful contribution to the success of the war, as well as the values they and their families embody,” and recognizes the “very profound challenges” faced by parents living on other continents, separated from their children.

Societal significance and challenges

The growing number of “Lone Soldiers” demonstrates how strong the desire is among many young Jews worldwide to actively participate in protecting Israel. For many, these soldiers embody not only military commitment but also a strong personal dedication to the Jewish state and its security.

At the same time, serving without family support presents these young people with major challenges—from separation from parents and siblings to practical issues such as housing and bureaucratic hurdles. Various initiatives and support programs within and outside the army therefore aim to provide additional assistance, to do justice to their service, and to facilitate a smooth transition to civilian life after military duty.

Overall, the figures and statements show that “Lone Soldiers” hold a firm place in the Israel Defense Forces and are regarded by the state and society as valuable components of defense readiness—not only in peacetime but especially in the face of ongoing security challenges.

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