Israeli newspaper Yediot Ahronot reported that the Israeli Army (IDF) has been discussing issues pertaining to the security budget, in light of possible cuts of NIS 3-6 billion (roughly $82 million-$1.6 billion). The paper quoted a senior official within the IDF Plans and Policy Directorate saying that the annual budgetary assessments are expected to change due to recent developments in Gaza and the West Bank. Additionally, the Israeli army is also preparing for possible fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon and overspill of the war in Syria. Antitank missile systems, which cost millions of shekels, are rumored to be the first on the chopping block. A critical issue facing the IDF is Iran's nuclear program, and a possible preemptive strike initiated by Israel, in regards to which, "The end of the year will bring us closer to a decision on the matter," the source noted. The source added that as part of an initiative to increase efficiency within the IDF, some 1,500 officers are expected to retire in June, "as part of a program which saved NIS 700 million (approximately $192 million) last year and will reach NIS 8 billion (about $2 billion) by 2017."