Massive Departure: IDF Arabic Spokesman With Millions of Followers Steps Down After 20 Years.

After two decades as the primary communicator for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to the Arabic-speaking world, Avichay Adraee, a figure followed by millions across the Middle East, is preparing to step down from his post, concluding an era of highly influential military communication.

Avichay Adraee, the long-serving and highly recognized face of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in the Arab world, is set to retire after an extraordinary career spanning two decades. His departure will conclude an innovative chapter in military public affairs, leaving a vacancy that a new Arabic-language spokesman will be appointed to fill in the coming weeks.

For 20 years, Adraee transcended the traditional limitations of his role, successfully penetrating a challenging and often hostile media landscape to become one of the most visible and influential Israeli figures across the Middle East. His strategic use of digital platforms transformed the way the IDF communicated regionally. His social media accounts boast millions of dedicated followers across various adversarial nations, including Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran, establishing a critical, direct channel of communication that often bypassed state-controlled media filters.

A Critical Source During the War

Adraee's unique importance was dramatically amplified during the current war across multiple fronts. His exceptional command of Arabic and his direct, firm communication style made him the central source for both operational information and public safety warnings delivered to enemy populations. In his capacity, Adraee frequently issued direct evacuation notices to civilian populations in war zones, including Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and even Iran, preceding planned Israeli strikes. This vital function was not merely about intelligence; it was a matter of life and death, providing time-sensitive information to people attempting to navigate the hostilities and preserve their safety.

His continuous exposure in the Arab media sphere is unprecedented for an Israeli official. Adraee has been featured prominently on major regional television programs, subjected to detailed analyses by senior Arab commentators, and frequently referenced or satirized in online videos and newspaper cartoons, all clear indicators of his profound visibility and his role as a symbol of Israel's persistent presence in the regional arena.

This high-profile public mission, however, came with considerable personal danger. Throughout his two decades of service, Adraee was the target of severe threats and even documented direct attempts on his life. Due to the constant risks inherent in his role, he required the assignment of personal security at various times. Despite the continuous threats, his commitment to the mission of clear, direct communication never wavered.

Adraee is coordinating the exact timing of his departure with the current IDF Spokesman, Brigadier General Effie Defrin. The announcement of his successor is highly anticipated, marking the close of the tenure of an individual who successfully maintained a public, persistent, and persuasive Israeli voice in nations otherwise considered firm adversaries.