IDF
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.
IDF res. Brigadier-General removed from position after reports of sexual assault - KAN
The IDF said that the reservist officer eventually terminated his duties a few days ago.
Trump backs more Iran strikes if nuclear program continues, IDF recovers bag of hostage in Gaza
Trump not opposed to another Israeli attack on Islamic Republic if nuclear program continues - WSJ
Donation infiltration: How Iranian spies infiltrate IDF donation networks to target Israel
IDF gunfire wounds ICRC, Red Crescent team during rescue mission in Gaza Strip - report
The IDF told the Jerusalem Post that it is aware of reports of an ICRC and Palestinian Red Crescent worker being fired on, and the incident is being investigated.
Summer reading list: Thought-provoking essays on Jews, the Israel-Hamas War, and Iran
Here is a summer reading roundup of 17 recent deep-think articles on a range of issues: the Gaza and Iran wars, US-Israel relations, global antisemitism, Israeli society, and more.
IDF confirms deaths of key PIJ terrorists, one of whom infiltrated Israel on Oct. 7
Additionally, the military killed a terrorist cell in Khan Yunis, and dismantled a terror tunnel approximately one kilometer long.
Jordanian border smuggling and West Bank infiltration: Israel's security challenges explained
From the porous border with Jordan to the terror threats in the West Bank and beyond, a senior security official spoke to Walla about the challenges the IDF faces in central Israel.
Israel's midnight strategist: How IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir rewired the doctrine on Iran
The Magazine delves into the life and character of Eyal Zamir – featuring conversations with peers from his years in military positions, people close to his family, officers who served alongside him.
IDF soldier Captain Reei Biran killed in the southern Gaza Strip
Originally from Shorashim, he was a squad commander in the Golani Reconnaissance Unit in the Golani Brigade.
Editor's Notes: Israel's 'friends' have forgotten why we hired them - comment
Diaspora generosity is heroic, but too many of the institutions that collect our money have lost the plot, padding paychecks, upgrading seats, and hoarding cash.
Israel at War day 644: What's happening in Gaza, West Bank?
IDF maps homes of Gush Etzion terrorists for demolition • Saudi-France conference on two-State solution to happen at end of July
Haredi soldiers graduate from IDF's Hashmonaim Brigade, ready for combat training
The Hashmonaim brigade is unique because its members are full-time haredim both inside and outside the army, receiving special measures like at least an hour of daily Talmud study.
In 'direct message' to Khamenei, Katz warns Iran of Israel's 'destructive power'
The defense minister said that there is no place in Iran for Islamic Regime officials who harm Israel to hide.
Gaza's deadly challenge: IDF faces renewed attacks as Hamas, allies regroup - analysis
As ceasefire talks continue, Hamas and other terrorist groups such as Islamic Jihad may be trying to go on the offensive in Gaza.
