The Israeli Defense Ministry is the government body that manages the security network and oversees security affairs for the state.
The state institutions managed by the Defense Ministry include the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), national museums, archives and memorials, as well as civil, political, and legal divisions that support the military and security network. The Defense Ministry serves as a bridge between the military and civilian infrastructure, including managing budgets, recruitment, and grand strategic decisions. The Defense Ministry also oversees and coordinates national emergencies and responses through the National Emergency Authority (NEMA).
In 2021, the defense minister was Benny Gantz and the director-general was Amir Eshel, who was appointed to the position in 2020. The ministry has had 21 ministers and 24 director-generals since its establishment until 2021. The ministry's headquarters is in Tel Aviv, in the Kirya.
The Defense Ministry works closely with Israeli defense industries. The International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT) lobbies foreign governments and holds exhibitions to secure contracts for Israeli private and public defense companies. The Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) researches and promotes new innovations in the fields of defense and security.
The Defense Ministry was established just after the dissolution of the British Mandate, in 1948, and collected and organized the Jewish militia groups into a concerted military and defense force.
Following the October 7 attacks, the number of wounded soldiers and other security personnel rose to more than 78,000, including 16,000 who had joined only after then.
As part of the new agreement, Sikorsky will establish a dedicated production line to adapt each helicopter to meet the IAF’s operational requirements.
The Defense Ministry announced that Maj.-Gen. (res) Amir Baram has been appointed as the 26th director-general of the ministry.
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The Defense Ministry also updated that over 16,000 soldiers have been wounded in the current war, since October 7.
"This latest round of testing has validated new capabilities that will help us better protect Israel and its people," said IMDO Director Moshe Patel.
Israel’s 2025 budget faces opposition pushback over proposed spending cuts, potentially delaying its approval ahead of the March 31 deadline.
The plan includes benefits for combat soldiers and aims to take "meaningful steps" to deepen appreciation and aid for reservists.
Katz said that the construction of the border fence will help counter terrorist actions.
“We will not allow the demilitarization to be violated, nor will we allow any emerging threats," said Defense Minister Israel Katz.
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