Danit Silber is serving as an IDF reservist, and as a mother of two young children, her decision to return to service is part of a growing number of women choosing to stay in the reserves after motherhood. She received an urgent call on Oct. 7 and immediately reported for duty, leaving her two toddlers at home. Despite mothers and pregnant women being exempt from further reserve duty, Silber had voluntarily committed to staying in the reserves.
Her husband Yishai assumes caretaking responsibilities for their children in her absence, balancing a job and childcare. Silber, who was on duty for about two months, briefly returned home for a few days to reunite with her family. Having been a reservist for 18 years, she usually has time to prepare with advanced notice, but this sudden call to active duty was unexpected.
She is based in northern Israel, closer to the Lebanese border and the Hezbollah threat. As a mother, she acknowledges the hardships of leaving her kids, but believes it’s necessary for the greater good. She has experience providing logistical support to the headquarters of various battalions and understands that her children are well taken care of in her absence.
Silber noted that about 30 to 40 percent of female reservists now volunteer to remain in service after having children, and she emphasized the importance of their contributions. She highlighted that more women are assuming combat roles, reflecting increased gender equality in the military.
From her mother’s perspective, Silber’s sudden departure was both unexpected and admirable. She and her husband Yishai have adapted to a new routine, balancing work and childcare in Silber’s absence. Despite not being in the military himself due to a history of depression, Yishai has supported his wife through her active duty. They maintain constant communication with Silber and their children through video chats, easing the challenges despite being physically apart.