Upcoming Events
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Fri, 01 Jun 2012 - 7:30 PM
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Sun, 03 Jun 2012 - 8:00 PM
Past Events
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Sun, 29 Apr 2012 - 12:00 PM
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Wed, 25 Apr 2012 - 6:30 PM
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Sat, 21 Apr 2012 - 7:30 AM
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Wed, 18 Apr 2012 - 7:30 PM
Israel Defense Force Spokesperson
Spotlight: Staff Sergeant Ofir Hershkovitz
Women in the IDF can have critical roles in the training of IDF soldiers. One of these roles is that of a parachuting instructor, who trains soldiers of the Paratroopers Brigade and other elite forces of the IDF to master the art of parachuting.
We present you with Staff Sergeant Ofir Hershkovitz.
Related posts:Army of the Future: The IDF’s Unmanned Vehicles
Unmanned vehicles (UMVs), whether in the skies, waters, or on ground, are indispensable tools for the surveillance of enemy activities, without putting one’s own forces in danger. Find out more about two outstanding UMVs and read for yourself what IDF commanders have to say about these incredible machines.
The Eye in the Sky – The Eitan Drone:
The Eitan was developed in Israel and unveiled for the first time to the general public in late 2007. With a wingspan of 26 meters it is as wide as a Boeing 737, but the Eitan can do much more than just fly. It is a medium-altitude, long endurance UAV, meaning that it can operate above altitudes of commercial air-traffic and can stay in the air for a flight-time of up to 36 hours. All weather capabilities, an automatic de-icing system, automatic takeoff and landing systems and a wide array of sensors which can be equipped to the Eitan’s belly, nose and wings, make it an extremely versatile reconnaissance platform.
“A large percentage of the IDF’s operational flight hours are performed by UAVs, sometimes even most of them. At any given time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, there are drones in the air performing activities that IDF forces are engaged in.” says Lieutenant Colonel Ido, commander of the Israeli Air Force’s UAV training center.
The Eitan waiting for takeoff on the runway (Photo: Eran Levi, Air Force Magazine)
“Our drone operators are extremely carefully selected. Within split-seconds they have to make life and death decisions and have to distinguish between terrorists, women, children, or our own troops. They sit in a safe room and their personal level of danger is the same as of someone on the beach in Tel Aviv. This kind of decision-making requires someone with a very orderly set of values: they know exactly what is right and wrong.”
A Loyal Partner – The Guardium:
Guardium UGV is an autonomous observation and target interception system, developed and produced in Israel. It is based on a TOMCAR chassis, capable of carrying payloads of up to 300 kg including a vast array of electronic instruments, armor and different weapons systems. It can be operated from a command center, but can also run patrol on predetermined routes without human intervention. In case of suspicious activity, the Guardium can quickly respond and hold the suspicious elements back until manned troops arrive, or use various forceful methods to eliminate the threat. Its many sensors, including video and thermal cameras with auto-target acquisition, sensitive microphones, powerful loudspeakers and a two way radio, combined with a top-speed of up to 80km/h make the Guardium a very reliable partner on routine patrols in dangerous environments.
The Guardium UGV on patrol
In addition to all of their amazing capabilities, UMVs allow their operators to stay safely behind enemy lines, giving them the ability to remain calm in critical situations and make calculated, carefully weighed decisions without the pressure of being under fire themselves. This distance to the battlefield can not only save the soldier’s life, but also that of innocent civilians.
Related posts:Israel Defense Forces: February, 2012
February 1: Israel remembers Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli Astronaut. In 1997, Ramon was selected to be the only Payload Specialist during NASA Mission STS-107 aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. He and his crewmates perished tragically in 2003 when the infamous Columbia shuttle exploded while re-entering Earth’s atmosphere–only 16 minutes before its scheduled landing time.
February 5: Maj.-Gen. Amir Eshel, former Chief of the IDF Planning Directorate, was appointed the new commander of the Israeli Air Force.
February 7: The IDF marks International Safer Internet Day and sent 90 officers and soldiers from the Teleprocessing Corps to schools all over the country to teach the basics of online safety to students.
February 8: To celebrate the annual Jewish celebration of Tu Bishvat, or festival of trees, IDF soldiers planted trees all around the country and used only recycled materials to help the environment. To assist the soldiers, a ’Taglit’ Birthright group joined in on the fun.
February 20: An exercise simulating an earthquake was held in all kindergartens and schools in Israel; its purpose was to test the Israeli education system’s readiness in case of an emergency.
February 26: Israel Highway 12 was re-opened to traffic following a temporary closure due to a deadly terror attack in August 2011. During the closure, the IDF worked intensively to achieve optimal safety conditions to re-open the road.
Judea and Samaria:
February 25: More than 1,200 violent Palestinian protesters participated in illegal riots in the Judea & Samaria regions. Rioters set fire to tires, blocked streets, and hurled rocks and firebombs at IDF forces, who responded with riot dispersal means. Five Palestinians were arrested in Hebron and given over to the custody of the Israeli Police.
Israel’s Southern Border:
This February alone, 29 rockets have been fired from Gaza into Israel. The rockets endanger over a million Israeli civilians living within firing range of the Gaza Strip.
For the second time this month, an explosive device was found along the Israeli-Egyptian border on February 23, 2012. Terrorists attempt to smuggle the explosives into Israel to carry-out terror attacks. A previous attempt was thwarted during a joint IDF-Israel Police action on Monday, February 20, 2012.
Related posts:Infiltration Attempt Thwarted on the Israel – Egypt Border
Overnight, IDF soldiers patrolling along the Israel-Egypt Border identified a number of suspects who had infiltrated into Israel. The soldiers called on them to stop, and when the suspects failed to comply, the soldiers acted in accordance with IDF rules of engagement. The suspects fired at the soldiers, who returned fire and identified a hit. Most of the suspects fled back to Egyptian territory, excluding one who remained injured in Israeli territory. Upon the arrival of an IDF medical force to the location of the incident, they determined the death of the injured suspect.
The IDF has increased its activity along Israel’s western border in light of increased infiltration attempts into Israel.
This incident occurred in the same area where a bag containing a large explosive device was discovered a week ago.
Smuggling and infiltration into Israel from its western border is used by terror organizations to execute terror attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. The IDF will continue to operate against anyone that poses a threat to the security of the State of Israel and its residents.
IDF Paramedics Treat Six Palestinians After Car Crash
Six Palestinians were injured today in a severe accident between a taxi and a civilian car near the Etzion District in Judea & Samaria. Combined forces of the IDF were alerted, and rushed to the scene of the accident–including ambulances of the Etzion Brigade, IDF paramedics and Magen David Adom medics. Cpt. Aziz Ibrahim, Head Medic of the Etzion Brigade told us:
“The forces worked tirelessly, but unfortunately one of the injured patients succumbed to his wounds at the scene of the crash. One other, heavily injured, was brought to Israel for further treatment, while the other four people, who suffered light and medium injuries, could be treated on the spot.”
Archive: IDF Paramedics assist a Palestinian man in the Jordan Valley
“Unfortunately, this kind of thing happens almost every day here. As medics we are always loyal to the Hippocratic Oath and we help, evacuate, and take care of everyone. It does not matter to us whether the patient is Israeli or Palestinian.”
Read more:
Related posts:Second Explosive Device Discovered on Israel-Egypt Border
Last Thursday, February 23, 2012, IDF soldiers performing routine patrol identified suspicious activity along the Israel-Egypt border. Following an attempt to apprehend and arrest the suspect, who managed to escape, a search in the area was conducted and a bag containing a large explosive device was discovered. The device was detonated in a controlled manner.
This is the second attempt to smuggle an explosive device into Israel in the past week. A previous attempt was thwarted during a joint IDF-Israel Police activity on Monday, February 20, 2012.
Soldiers of the Combat Engineering Corps disabling an IED found last week
This type of terror activity is directed by terror organizations from the Gaza Strip, who use criminal smuggling routes in the Sinai Peninsula and into Israel.
Related posts:Battle at Dawn: Druze ‘Herev’ Battalion Conduct Drill in Northern Israel
Choppers in the dark of night, explosives appearing out of nowhere, and a counter attack on the enemy in front- this pretty much sums up last week’s ‘Herev’ Battalion drill. The new officers of the Unique Druze ‘Herev’ Battalion conducted a drill simulating some of the most extreme scenarios.
Druze 'Herev' Battalion officer simulate extreme situations
The officers took part in a three-day training session, testing their abilities and awareness like no drill has done before. The drill started normally as the officers were tested in navigation, shooting, and tests of leadership- determining their skills to lead soldiers into battle; however:
the last day was a whole different story.
The officers were awoken at the middle of the night, with a surprise scenario demanding immediate alertness. In minutes, the officers jumped into choppers stationed in the base and were taken to the simulated ‘battle scene.
Druze 'Herev' Battalion officers test their shooting abilities
While at the ‘battle front’, they encountered the enemy in the village, and were met with explosives and grenades being continuously hurled at them. During each advance on the enemy, the commanders chose one of the trainees to lead the squad. At dawn, the soldiers charged the enemy, overtaking them and winning the simulated battle.
The Herev (sword) Battalion, stationed along Israel’s northern border, is largely composed of Israeli Druze citizens, who were drafted to this special unit.
Related posts:IDF’s Armoire of Berets
Check out the stories of the different IDF berets and the units they represent. Some of these stories will surprise you–like how a young girl’s favorite color became one of the most coveted berets in the IDF.
Related posts:
Highway No. 12 To Be Re-Opened Following Deadly Terror Attack
Highway No. 12, closed after a deadly terror attack in August 2011, was re-opened for traffic. The decision followed situation assessments and work to improve the security along the road, and was approved by GOC Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Tal Russo.
During the months in which the road was closed for traffic, the IDF operated intensively in order to achieve the optimal conditions for re-opening the road.
Prior to the opening of the section of the highway for traffic, wide-scale work was carried out in order to strengthen the defense of the roads adjacent to the Israel – Egypt border. These defenses include the expedited construction of the “Hourglass” project, reinforcement of forces and observation means as well as additional defense measures fitted to face the current threats of terror attacks in the area.
The IDF operates constantly in order to preserve the routine of Israeli civilians while keeping them safe.
GOC Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Tal Russo declared that from Sunday, February 26, 2012, traveling on Highway 12 in the section between the Sayarim Junction and the Netafim Border Crossing will be only permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Furthermore, travelling in the section of the road refers only to the road itself; getting of the road and traveling in the area between the road and the international border is still forbidden. Travelers and hikers will be allowed to travel off-road to the east of Highway 12 during daylight between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. only.
The order forbids any entry by foot or by traffic to the section of road specified above between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., however, special permits can be given by authorized personnel who is certified by the GOC Southern Command, to permit otherwise.
The restrictions do not apply to soldiers and police officers who are required to enter the area as part of fulfilling their duty.
Related posts:In Response to Rocket Fire, IAF Targets Terror Activity Sites
Overnight, IAF aircraft targeted a weapon manufacturing site and a smuggling tunnel in the southern Gaza Strip. Direct hits were confirmed.
The targeting of these sites is in response to the rockets fired at Israel over the weekend. Over 50 rockets have been fired at Israel over the past two months.
The IDF will not tolerate any attempt to harm Israeli civilians or IDF soldiers, and will operate against anyone who uses terror against the State of Israel. The Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for any terrorist activity emanating from the Gaza Strip.
Archive: IAF targeting terror facility in Gaza
Related posts:Virtual Reality – The IDF Ground Forces Battle Lab
Do you love video games? Have you always wanted to drive a tank, except your local tank-dealer never seemed to have one in stock? Then you’ll love the IDF’s Ground Forces Battle Lab.
Before a new technology is combat-ready and deployed in the field, it needs a lot of testing. However, not every scenario can be played out in real life, which is why 15 years ago, IDF’s Ground Forces Battle Lab was created. When a new system like the Iron Dome, the Trophy System or the Merkava IV needs to be tested, the Ground Forces Battle Lab creates a virtual environment in which different scenarios can be played out. These virtual environments are based on video games and include scenario generators and sophisticated artificial intelligence. Enemies and friendly forces alike can be inserted into the simulation and behave like their real-life counterparts.
The Tank Simulator - Every gamer's dream
Take the tank simulator, for example. A soldier sits in front of three screens with a gas pedal, breaks and joysticks and can choose which tank crew member he wants to simulate. Each role has specific programming, and up to 11 tanks with 20-25 crew members can be simulated at once. After each simulation a full report with recommendations is created. These recommendations are translated directly into improvements for the tanks in the field.
A tank from the 188th Armored Brigade in the field
In the 15 years since its creation, the Ground Forces Battle Lab has worked on over 20 projects, some of which took up to four years to be completed. The Battle Lab is an indispensable tool which helps developers to continuously improve existing technologies and test out new ones. So come on, get in the tank.
Restraining Orders Served to Jewish Extremists in Judea and Samaria
Tonight, January 04, 2012, the Judea and Samaria District of the Israel Police delivered administrative restraining orders signed off by GOC Central Command, Major General Avi Mizrahi, based on recommendations of the ISA, to twelve activists for periods ranging from three months up to nine months.
The orders follow the culmination of information recently gathered by the ISA, according to which the group of extremists has been involved in leading, directing and executing violent and clandestine activity targeting Palestinian residents of Judea and Samaria and security forces operating in the area, therefore endangering lives and disrupting public order.
It should be noted that the issuing of these orders derives from a specific security necessity, and after exhausting all other alternatives. These orders are a preventative measure to remove the threat by the activists in the area.
5 Tips for Fitness from an IDF’s Elite Unit Sports Instructor
Quick fact about the IDF: its soldiers are mostly 18-to-21-year-olds who have the skills of veteran warriors. Why? Because they’re trained from day one to be in top shape, both physically and mentally. Here are some tips from the sports instructor of the Egoz Unit, one of the army’s most elite commando forces, specializing in classified operations in a forested environment.
1. Combine both aerobic and anaerobic exerciseTo increase your stamina and develop your lower body muscles, combine both aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Our soldiers, for example, do interval training, going from crouched ambush positions to high-energy sprints into the “field” in split seconds.
2. Work on your strength as well as your cardiovascular fitnessWork on your strength as well as your cardiovascular fitness, to improve your posture and your physical condition. Do this by lifting weights which you can lift 10 times straight, and then another two times after a brief rest. In order to achieve this goal, our soldiers use their personal weapons to ‘bull up’, staying in one constant position while holding the weapon – usually around seven pounds – up in the air for several minutes. Decide how much your ideal weight would be and start lifting.
3. If you’re running, do it on uneven surfacesIt helps prevent orthopedic injuries and strengthens more muscles in your body. IDF soldiers, for example, train at the beach and run for miles on sand, which builds their lower body strength and helps improve balance and posture. Plus, going out provides a much needed break from a monotonous exercise routine. Remember to switch around your exercise schedule and practice in different places.
4. Track your progressOur soldiers undergo the “Bar-Or” test every few months, which measures their aerobic ability and strength. Soldiers are required to do 86 sit-ups and 75 push-ups straight, then complete a 2km run in 7 minutes. To become an officer, combat soldiers undergo a “Loren Test”, which follows a nightly navigation and includes scaling a two-meter wall, climbing a three-meter wall, completing an obstacle course, running two miles, and then target-shooting — all in under 22 minutes. Oh, and they do it with full battle gear, of course. Figure out what works for you and make sure to test yourself regularly.
5. Though it may be a cliché, sports and fitness truly are a mental stimulantIDF commanders are trained to motivate and urge their soldiers to achieve excellence and precision. By believing you can complete the goal you set for yourself, you’ll truly be able to do it!
IDF General Staff Meeting Sets the Record Straight on Gender Equality
Earlier today, members of the IDF General Staff, led by the Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz, discussed the main conclusions and recommendations that were determined by the team led by Head of the Personnel Directorate, Major General Orna Barbivai, concerning the various aspects of the combined service of men and women in the IDF.
Archive: Maj. Gen. Orna Barbivai being awarded her new rank.
The team identified the conflicting issues of the matter, in an attempt to establish an updated policy, codified in the IDF orders, which would guide commanders as they conduct their daily responsibilities.
The Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz emphasized that the sole authority in the IDF and its units are the commanders, and no other. The commanders will determine, without any external interference, the unit’s nature and way of conduct, in accordance with IDF protocol and relevant commands.
The committee discussed the issue of women’s singing in public, concluding that IDF female soldiers will continue to sing at every IDF event. During official events, memorial ceremonies, special ceremonies held in the presence of grieving families, Israeli Fallen Soldiers Remembrance day ceremonies, Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance day ceremonies, Yitzhak Rabin Memorial day ceremonies, Honor ceremonies as well as Graduation ceremonies, attendance of soldiers will be mandatory, with no place for commanders to decide otherwise.
The IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz also accepted the recommendation of the team and decided that soldiers who wish to be excused from extracurricular events which include women’s singing may do so if authorized by their commander. Commanders may exercise their judgment during the remainder of events, in line with the relevant protocols and as deemed necessary in the given event.
In conclusion, the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, determined that women’s singing is not prohibited, and that it is important to maintain the heritage of the IDF as part of Israeli culture.
Archive: Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz and the Chief Military Rabbi Brig. Gen. Raffi Peretz
In addition, in line with the responsibility of the Head of the Education and Youth Corps, meetings between rabbis or heads of Talmudic colleges and their student soldiers will be approved prior to doing so by the Chief Military Rabbi. Also, a representative of the Military Rabbinate will attend any such meeting, and will ensure that it is in accordance with the values of the IDF.
The IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz emphasized that “the IDF must be an army of purpose, unity and uniqueness. Purpose- in facing our mission to maintain security, uniqueness- in our moral values and national and social commitment, and unity in facing the challenge of being a “Melting Pot” in the Israeli society.”
Archive: Caracal, our mixed male-female battalion, is a great example of equality between men and women in the IDF
The IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz added that “above any fracture within Israeli society are the guiding principles of unity, formality, and equality, overpowering any differences”.
Photos: Illegal Weapons Captured Near Nablus
An IDF force stationed near Nablus captured two Palestinian men carrying an M-16 rifle, an Uzi, and matching ammunition yesterday. The two were taken in for investigation while the weapons themselves were confiscated by security forces.
In the past few months several other weapon caches and terror cells have been discovered in Judea and Samaria, not including improvised weapons such as knives or Molotov cocktails, which are confiscated on a near-daily basis.
M-16 rifle confiscated by IDF forces yesterday near Nablus
Ammunition for the weapons, captured during an IDF operation yesterday
Uzi rifle confiscated by security forces near Nablus yesterday
Confiscated ammunition and rifle
Update: Muaman Abu-daf- Senior Global Jihad Operative Targeted
Military sources: “The terrorist who was targeted earlier this morning is Muaman Abu-daf, a senior operative in the Global Jihad terror movement. He orchestrated and executed numerous and varied terror attacks against Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers including laying explosive devices in the area adjacent to the security fence and was involved in different firing incidents. Furthermore, Abu-daf was actively involved in the preparations of the attempted terror attack on the Israel-Egypt border that was thwarted this week.”
Logo of the Global Jihad terror movement
IAF Thwarts Rocket Fire Attempt
A short while ago, IAF aircraft targeted a terrorist squad that was identified moments before firing rockets at Israel from the northern Gaza Strip. A hit was confirmed, thwarting the rocket fire attempt.
The aforementioned squad is responsible for the firing of rockets at Israel in the past number of days.
The IDF will not tolerate any attempt to harm Israeli civilians, and will operate against anyone who uses terror against the state of Israel. The Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for any terrorist activity emanating from the Gaza Strip
2011: The Greatest Events
January: Security Forestation Project Begins
The Strategic Security Forestation Project was launched to contribute towards the safety of Israel’s southern communities. Its goal was to plant new trees and relocate existing ones so as to shield the towns from rocket fire and help obscure their location. The event was chaired by GOC Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Tal Russo: “The project launched today reflects the brave connection to the communities surrounding Gaza, and allows us to next another step in fulfilling our mission – defending the southern communities, with added environmental benefits”.
GOC Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Tal Russo, planting the first tree with Israeli children.
February: Appointment of the 20th IDF Chief of the General Staff
Maj. Gen. Benny Gantz was appointed the 20th IDF Chief of the General Staff and promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General. He replaced Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, who served as Chief of the General Staff during the last four years. Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz is married and a father of four.
Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz joining soldiers in the field during a military exercise.
March: “Victoria” Weapons Smuggling Ship Intercepted + Iron Dome System Deployed
Soldiers of the Israeli Navy intercepted the “Victoria“, a ship headed from Syria to Egypt, with enormous amounts of weapons onboard, all intended for use in the Gaza Strip. These weapons included over 2,500 mortar shells, advanced radar systems and six ready-to-fire C-704 anti-ship missiles, which boast a range of 35km.
During the same month, the first “Iron Dome” missile defense system battery was deployed in Israel’s southern region. “Iron Dome” helps combat the threat of rocket fire directed at Israel’s southern communities. The “Iron Dome” batteries are on an active rotation, capable of being relocated to cities and regions as necessary.
April: IDF Aid Delegation to Japan Returns Home
After two tedious weeks of working around the clock to provide medical care to the Minamisanriku residents hurt by a massive tsunami, the IDF aid mission returned home. The mission included a team of specialists from the Medical Corps, experts from the Search and Rescue Units, as well as logistics and communications personnel.
The majority of the medical equipment brought by the IDF will remain in Japan. The X-ray machinery and lab tools will benefit the physicians and local authorities providing care to the locals.
May: Investigation of Itamar Terror Attack Concluded
The investigation into the Itamar terror attack – the murder of Rabbi Ehud Fogel, his wife Ruth and their three children, Yoav, Elad, and Hadas – was concluded. Lt. Gen. Gantz, who ordered the investigation, viewed its findings and ordered to heighten security measures in the area. The terror attack in Itamar, which saw the brutal and premeditated murder of small children with their parents, was considered one of the most violent attacks in recent years.
In addition, IDF forces faced violent riots by the Palestinian population in Israel and Syria during “Nakba Day”, shortly followed by “Naqsa Day”, in which damage was caused to the border security fence.
June: Israeli Army Celebrates First-Ever Female Major General
Maj. Gen. Orna Barbivai, the first woman in the IDF to be promoted to this rank, becomes Commander of the Manpower Directorate. Her rank is the IDF’s second-highest, directly reporting to Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, the IDF Chief of Staff. Maj. Gen. Barbivai has served in the IDF for 30 years, devoting her entire military career to the directorate. She is the second woman to serve in the General Staff.
Maj. Gen. Orna Barbivai being awarded her new rank.
July: Five Years since the Second Lebanon War
Israel marks five years since the Second Lebanon War. The war was triggered by the killing of three Israeli soldiers during a routine patrol on the Israel-Lebanon border, in which Hezbollah kidnapped two of the three bodies. It lasted 34 days and ended with the signing of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which Hezbollah has since systematically violated.
August: Terror Attack in Southern Israel, Eilat
During August, Israel was rocked by several consecutive terror attacks in its southern region:
- A group of approximately 12 terrorists opened fire on a bus headed to Eilat, an Israeli resort city near the Israel-Egypt border
- Seven minutes later a bomb was detonated near an IDF patrol along the Egyptian border
- An anti-tank missile was fired at a private vehicle, killing four civilians.
Eight people were killed from the attacks – six civilians, a police officer and a soldier. Military sources suspect involvement of the Popular Resistance Committee (PRC), a Gaza-based coalition of Palestinian terrorists.
These attacks tie in directly with the rockets fired at Israel from Gaza. As of December 29h, there have been 627 rockets and mortars fired at Israel in2011.
The bus headed to Eilat which was destroyed by a terror attack.
September: Murder of two members of the Palmer family
Asher Palmer and his eight-month-old son were murdered while traveling near Hebron on Friday, Sept. 23rd. Four terrorists are suspected, including Ahmed Awad, who was involved in the murder of the Fogel family in March.
October: Gilad Shalit Returns to Israel
On October 18th, Sergeant First Class Gilad Shalit was returned home to Israel and his family after 1,941 long days in enemy captivity. SFC Shalit was abducted by Hamas terrorists on June 25th, 2006 in a cross-border raid that killed two Israeli soldiers and injured three more. He was released in exchange for 1,027 Palestinian and Arab-Israeli prisoners, 280 of whom were serving life sentences for planning and executing various terror attacks. The released prisoners were collectively responsible for the murder of 569 Israeli civilians. Gilad has since returned to his family home in Mitzpe Hila, where he was greeted by hundreds of supporters celebrating his arrival.
SFC Gilad Shalit returned home to his family after five years in captivity.
November: “Tahrir and Saorise” Flotilla Peacefully Intercepted
Israeli Navy Soldiers peacefully boarded two vessels headed for the Gaza Strip attempting to break the maritime security blockade that is in effect. The vessels were notified several times of the legality of the blockade and were advised to turn around or sail to the port of Ashdod, where their cargo could be legally transferred into Gaza. After the activists ignored all warnings, soldiers of the Israeli Navy boarded the two ships, taking every precaution to ensure the safety of those on board. The activists were transferred to the custody of the Israel Police and immigration authorities.
December: 163rd IAF Flight Academy Course Graduates
The 163rd graduation ceremony of the IAF Flight Academy was held on December 29th, 2011. Among the graduates were five female pilots, the highest number to every graduate at once, each of which will be specializing in a different field.
The five female pilots who graduated the IAF Flight Academy course.
IAF Flight School Graduation Ceremony
The graduation ceremony of the IAF Flight Academy took place today in the Hatzerim IAF Base. The pilots received their flight wings following completion of a three year course, during which they trained to be pilots and officers, as well as receiving an academic degree from Ben Gurion University. Attending the ceremony were Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz, Chief of the General Staff, and Major General Ido Nehushtan, IAF Commander, joining family, guests, friends and IAF personnel.
The graduation ceremony of the IAF Flight Academy
As of next week, the new graduates will be stationed at different IAF squadrons and will continue their operational training as pilots, navigators and flight engineers.
IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz congratulated the graduates saying “Spread your wings, embark on your mission, keep your eyes on the goal and achieve it!” He added that “We stand between dealing with terror organizations who attempt to raise their heads, and Iran who is advancing towards nuclear capabilities. We must develop offensive countermeasures and aim higher and farther to reach wherever our enemies operate against us.”
IAF Commander, Maj. Gen. Ido Nehushtan also spoke at the ceremony and stated “The unique social background of the graduates reflects the special and beautiful melting pot of Israel, 2012: Children of cities, towns and kibbutzim; those of a religious and secular background; born in Israel and Olim; children of IAF pilots and for the first time, five female graduates. Women’s service in the IAF, in every profession, is a natural thing and we are proud of it.
The IAF is proud of you, has faith in you and is confident in your abilities. Conquer the skies and return safely.”
2011: Thanks for Following!
2011 has been a year full of incredible events for the Israeli Defense Forces. We have worked tirelessly, always keeping in mind our goals – to defend Israel and its residents. This year Israeli citizens have had many thing to celebrate: the long-awaited release of Gilad Shalit, who was held hostage by Hamas since 2006; the IDF aid mission to Japan which saved dozens of lives during the tsunami disaster; and the deployment of the Iron Dome Missile Defense System, which will now protect the Israeli communities of the south.
With all this behind us and more to look forward to, the IDF thanks you for following us and wishes you a happy new year!