Similar to the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Solemani in 2020, missile strikes mark heightened tensions in the Middle East. This time a retaliatory Iranian missile barrage targeted Israel after an Iranian consulate in Syria was bombed by Israel, an important US ally and foothold in the Middle East. Israel has received major military funding, especially after they were attacked by the Palestinian terrorist group, Hamas, on Oct. 7, 2024. Because Israel is an ally of the US, there are fears that the US could get involved directly in the fighting. And, with any armed conflict, thoughts of the resurgence of the draft bubble in the minds of those under the age of 26.
According to FHS’ United States government teacher, David Smith, one must be 18, male and pass a physical to be draftedl. Pulling from his experience being a student during the Vietnam War, Smith listed some exceptions that would delay someone drafting, explaining, “You could get out if you were in high school, if you had a medical condition, religious conviction, conscientious objector, in the medical field and only person to carry on your family’s name [or other hardship].” However, according to the Selective Service System website, the only complete exemptions are for ministers, certain elected officials as long as they hold office, veterans and immigrants/dual citizens (only in some cases).
Some, like Senior Dylan Damer, believe that if the US were to enter the conflict, a draft wouldn’t be necessary, “Our military is so big that I do not feel that it’s going to be an issue that we run out of soldiers.” With over 1.39 million active personnel in 2023, and the Department of Defense proposed to receive $849.8 billion in funding in fiscal year 2025, Damer isn’t wrong to doubt fears of a draft in the future. Damer added, “I think that even if we do get into a war there will be enough people that will volunteer to go. Personally, I would volunteer.”
Senior Lucas Wannemacher voices an opposing opinion, “I’m planning on joining the Air Force. If I weren’t going into the military, no, I don’t want to be drafted.” Wannemacher pointed out how getting involved in conflicts around the world takes focus (and funding) away from pressing domestic issues like the massive debt the US is in, $34 Trillion and rising.
While the draft and military service are a possibility, it’s a remote one. The United States already spends a considerable portion of its budget on defense and has one of the largest standing armies in the world.
