Israel seeks new generation of farmers through reserve soldier initiative

Israel has launched the “Fighters for Agriculture” initiative, a national program designed to attract discharged soldiers and reserve servicemen into the agricultural sector. Approved on Tuesday, the plan prioritizes reservists in the allocation of long-term agricultural land. The initiative will prepare approximately 50,000 dunams (12,400 acres) of farmland in northern and southern Israel for new farmers between 2027 and 2032, providing professional training, water infrastructure, and support programs. This program aims to address the shortage of farmers in Israel, where the average age of agricultural workers is nearing 65.