The IDF, or, Israel Defense Forces, is the national military force of the State of Israel and consists of the Israeli Ground Force, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israeli Navy.
The IDF is headed by the Chief of Staff, who holds the rank of lieutenant general and is the only active officer who does so. The current chief of staff is Eyal Zamir.
The IDF was formally established in May 1948 after the creation of the Jewish State, and it encompassed the three paramilitary groups that existed prior to the state - the Hagana, the Irgun, and the Stern Gang (Lehi).
Since the formation of the IDF, it has participated in six major wars including the War of Independence, the Six Day War, the Sinai War, the Yom Kippur War, and the first and second Lebanon Wars. Other operations include Operation Cast Lead, Operation Pillar of Defense, Operation Protective Edge, Operation Guardian of the Walls, and Operation Swords of Iron.
Conscription to the IDF is mandatory for both men and women over the age of 18, with women in non-combat positions serving for two years, and women in combat positions, and men, regardless of position, have a mandatory service of two years and eight months.
In addition to regular military duties and activities, the IDF responds to national emergencies or crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and provides personnel to carry out work alongside the civilian population.
The stories of two Masa alumni who gave their lives in Israel’s defense remind us of the deep bonds between global Jewry and the State of Israel.
The stories of two Masa alumni who gave their lives in Israel’s defense remind us of the deep bonds between global Jewry and the State of Israel.
A national reset will not happen while Yoav Kisch lectures hostage families, Bezalel Smotrich berates the IDF, and Benjamin Netanyahu clings to power through blame.
The probe found that only at 1:30 p.m. did the first IDF troop enter the kibbutz, just four minutes after the last terrorists left.
The IDF stated that “even in the midst of ongoing missions, we remain mindful of our past and those we have lost."
Two additional soldiers were severely injured as well.
The IDF said it "regrets this serious incident and continues to conduct thorough review processes to draw operational lessons and evaluate additional measures to prevent such events in the future."
All of the suspects were transferred to Israel Police custody for further questioning.
"I admire every soldier. Despite the pain, I must keep telling my story - so you know why we are here today. You are our true victory," said Sarah Weinstein.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also instructed the IDF and Fire and Rescue Brigades to prepare reserves from Greece and other countries abroad.
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