IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir conducted several visits to Air Force and intelligence bases to conduct a formal debriefing and lessons-learned process following the conclusion of Operation Rising Lion in June, the military confirmed on Sunday.
While conducting the review, the IDF simultaneously initiated a renewed operational planning cycle for a potential new campaign against what it called Iran’s “terror regime,” the military said.
According to the IDF, the updated planning is based on operational achievements and shortcomings identified during Operation Rising Lion, with an emphasis on sharpening readiness for future escalation on the Iranian front.
Zamir says Operation "Shield of Light" is an example of courage
On Sunday, the IDF Chief of Staff shared an official letter to IDF soldiers, officers, and commanders, stating that the Israeli army is "emerging stronger and more unified from the Operation 'Shield of Light."
In his words, Zamir said, "This is one of the most significant campaigns we have known – complex, tough, and multi-theatre – fighting on multiple fronts. It is a shining testament to the strength of the human spirit when Israeli society stands united, and to the mission we have set for ourselves: to safeguard the State of Israel."
By disserting about the Operation, the IDF Chief of Staff said that it reshaped Israel's balance, preparing the state for the future.
"We operated across all dimensions – in the air, at sea, and on land. We struck decisively and systematically, and over the past months have demonstrated abilities unmatched by any other military in the world," said Zamir, thanking the IDF staff for the sacrifices made for the state.
Still, about the Operation Shield of Light, Zamir said that it was a "hining chapter in the history of the IDF and the State of Israel – a chapter of courage."
Zamir visits Hatzerim Airbase
On Tuesday, Zamir visited Hatzerim Airbase with the Commander of the Israeli Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar, the Commander of Hatzerim Airbase, Brigadier General R, and additional commanders, the IDF said in a statement.
The motive of the visit was to assess the Air Force's readiness ahead of Operation "Roaring Lion."
According to the IDF, the preparation process for the operation included "dozens of briefings and operational discussions."
In a statement on his visit to the Air Force, Zamir said, “In ‘Rising Lion,’ we demonstrated our impressive capabilities. I believe the Air Force showed an extremely impressive performance here. We are operating in close cooperation with our most important partner, the United States of America."
He added, "We are working in coordination with CENTCOM, with AFCENT, CENTCOM’s Air Force, and there is undoubtedly a tremendous force here. When we embark on this campaign, that power will be brought to bear — extraordinary strength that will ultimately reach its objectives at the required scale."
The IDF Chief of Staff expressed gratitude and appreciation for the Air Force's work, saying that the people of Israel see " the Israeli Air Force with great pride. With that pride also comes great hope. They trust you, believe in you, believe in your capabilities, and I want to express, in my name and on behalf of the IDF, my deep appreciation for you."