The Israeli military is facing a budget shortfall that is undermining its military readiness, Anadolu reports citing Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir.

“Unfortunately, these days we are also facing a challenge regarding the IDF’s budget,” Zamir says during a multi-front situational assessment, according to a statement.

“At a time when the IDF and its personnel are operating on all fronts, we must deal with a lack of funds. Such a situation harms the IDF’s readiness,” he adds.

The remarks come amid a dispute between Israel’s defence and finance ministries over additional military funding.

Israeli media reported this month that the army faces a budget shortfall of around 40 billion shekels ($12.3bn), largely due to continued operational expenses and reserve-duty costs. The funding dispute has also affected military procurement programs, including planned acquisitions of fighter jets and munitions.