Photo: IDF Press Service
Today, the IDF Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Gertzi Halevi, visited Israel’s northern borders in the Western Galilee. Together with the Commander of the Northern Command, Major General Ori Gordin, and the Commander of the 146th Division, Major General Yiftah Norkin, he assessed the situation in this strategically important area. The visit included discussions with reserve unit commanders who are currently conducting limited, localised and targeted raids in Lebanon based on accurate intelligence.
In his statement, Lieutenant General Khalevi addressed the reservists, acknowledging the difficulties they face, ranging from economic to personal losses:
“I understand the costs and stresses for each of you – family, work, personal difficulties. We are working to establish a system of support and compensation for reservists whose businesses or training are affected. The IDF needs to be bigger, both in the regular forces and in the reserves, and that is why we are increasing our capacity.”
In addition, Halevi touched upon the issue of integrating haredim into the army. He shared the story of a young haredi soldier he met during a visit to Soroka Hospital. The soldier from Bnei Brak, despite the initial distrust of his family, decided to join the IDF, and now receives full support from his family even after being injured. “Our task is to create more stories like this. This is not only a matter of defence, but also of social cohesion,” said Halevi, stressing that the expansion of the IDF could also be an important step towards positive social change.
The IDF continues to strengthen its defences and increase its forces, especially in the north, where preparations for possible escalations are underway.
