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 Herzi Halevi.
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.
Israel’s independence depends on robust defense readiness. And on new military-intelligence leaders with clear-eyed understanding of the situation.
May 12, 2024 | Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem
The event will be held at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem, which will also host an Independence Day morning prayer service.
Gov't ministers butt heads over war priorities • Anti-Israel protests continue on US college campuses • Heavy barrage launched on Israel's north overnight
Our crown jewels are those magnificent people who continue to give so much of themselves so that we may live as sovereigns in our country and that our brethren overseas may have a home to return to.
The Sephardi chief rabbi complained about hesder yeshiva leaders who had criticized his comments about the IDF.
The floating pier, through which the humanitarian aid will be transferred, is being built by the US and will be connected to the shore.
The IDF said it struck terrorist infrastructure used by Hezbollah in Srebbine, as well as in Markaba on Saturday night.
Other Israeli officials criticized Itamar Ben-Gvir for his proposal to execute those who surrendered.
A Khan Yunis launching site was attacked where rockets were fired at the IDF throughout the war and had the potential for further rocket launches at Israeli forces.
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