Gantz: IDF in high state of readiness

IDF improved its preparedness in the South, North and Center this year, Gantz says as Syria tensions hang over region.

By YAAKOV LAPPIN
IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz 370 (photo credit: REUTERS)
IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz 370
(photo credit: REUTERS)
The military is in a high state of readiness, and able to deal successfully with all possibilities, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz said Monday, during a visit to a navy base in Haifa.
He spoke as the prospect of US military action in Syria continued to hang over the region, alongside threats by Iran and Syria to attack Israel in response to an American strike.
Addressing navy personnel, Gantz said, “The past two years have seen a regional shakeup, and over the recent year, Israel has faced security challenges, such as Operation Pillar of Defense, through to other operations this year.”
He added that “the IDF improved its operational preparedness in the South, North, and Center this year.”
Regional turmoil and the sensitive situation it has created, obligate the IDF to be in a high state of readiness, Gantz said.
“The past two weeks, with the tragic events in Syria, certainly highlight the need for the IDF to be in a state of readiness, for all operations that occurred, and which will occur,” he continued.
“During my tours over the past weeks, and in recent days specifically, I am observing a very high state of readiness in all sections of the IDF – intelligence, forces on the ground and in the air, teleprocessing and the navy, where I am now.
I’m seeing good, sharp people in every place, all ready to carry out any mission when required. The Israeli nation can count on us,” Gantz said.
On Sunday, IDF Northern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yair Golan told regional council heads of the IDF’s steps to prepare itself for developments in Syria.
“On the one hand, we took significant steps to prepare. We tensed ourselves and strengthened our defensive and offensive capabilities, without hysteria,” Golan said.
“There was no massive reserves call-up, we didn't harm civilian life in any way. Life continued as normal, and every authority is prepared in its jurisdiction,” he added.