Israel Defense Forces (IDF)

Israel Defense Forces (IDF)

Israel's unified military force combining army, air force and navy, currently engaged in multiple operations including the Gaza war, northern border defense, and counter-terrorism

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), known in Hebrew as Tzahal, is Israel's unified military organization encompassing its ground forces, air force, and navy. As Israel's primary defense institution, the IDF operates under a unified command structure and is responsible for protecting the country's borders, citizens, and interests through both defensive and offensive operations.

Currently, the IDF is engaged in multiple concurrent operations, with its primary focus on the ongoing war in Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attacks. Under the leadership of Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, IDF forces are conducting intensive ground operations in Gaza while simultaneously maintaining defensive positions along the northern border with Lebanon against Hezbollah threats.

The IDF maintains various specialized units and divisions, including the Nahal Brigade, Givati Brigade, and the newly established Hashmonaim Brigade for ultra-Orthodox recruits. These forces operate across different theaters, from counter-terrorism operations in Judea and Samaria to defending against Houthi threats from Yemen, demonstrating the military's diverse operational capabilities.

Recent operations have highlighted both the IDF's strengths and challenges. While achieving significant tactical successes against Hamas infrastructure and leadership, the military has also faced casualties and operational setbacks, particularly in northern Gaza. The IDF has adapted its strategies, incorporating lessons learned from combat experiences and adjusting its approach to urban warfare and tunnel warfare.

The military organization places strong emphasis on technological advancement and intelligence capabilities, as evidenced by its sophisticated air defense systems and precision strike capabilities. The IDF's air force has been particularly active in conducting operations against various threats, from intercepting Houthi missiles to striking strategic targets in Syria and Lebanon.

Keep Going, Guys!
WATCH: IDF uncovers Hezbollah arms cache just across the border

The IDF's "Mountains" Brigade conducted a raid across the border into the Lebanese Mount Dov area to remove weapons which might pose a threat.

Avi Woolf | 13:14

Masked Warrior by Day, Soulful Voice by Night 

MUST LISTEN: 'M', Israel's most secretive counter-terror agent, is also its most enigmatic popstar 

Gila Isaacson | 12:36

CROSSING CONTROL IGNITES CRISIS

The Palestinian Authority thinks it will rule the Rafah Crossing! – Here's what they don't know

Gila Isaacson | עודכן ב 11:46

SILICON VALLEY GOES TO WAR

IN SECRET: How Google has been helping the IDF win the Israel-Hamas war

Gila Isaacson | 11:36

The War in Samaria

WATCH: Jenin - Attacks from the air, eliminating terrorists and destroying IEDs 

Avi Nachmani | 11:25

Tensions high between Defense Minister Katz and Chief of Staff Halevi

'Responsibility Has Meaning': Heated Exchange Between Israel Katz and Herzi Halevi

Eliana Fleming | 21.01.25

The Power Play for Chief of Staff has begun

The Battle for Chief of Staff: Meet the Top Contenders to Replace Halevi

Eliana Fleming | 21.01.25

Good Luck With That

Lebanon: Israel must withdraw by January 26 - or things will be different than before

Avi Woolf | 21.01.25

Hoping We Can Recover

Israel lost psychologically, not militarily

Elad Nachshon | 21.01.25

Herzi Halevi's Unforgivable Betrayal

How Herzi Halevi Left Israel Defenseless on Its Darkest Day

1
| Chaya Mushka Rubenstein | 21.01.25

Some Good News Amid War

Saved by Heroes: The Incredible Reunion of Soldier and Medics After Life-Saving Rescue

Eliana Fleming | 21.01.25

What happened?

Resigning Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi Announces: "We failed in Defense; no one knew about the surprise attack on October 7th"

Eliana Fleming | 21.01.25

Well, That's Nice Of Him

Bezalel Smotrich: My criticism of Herzi Halevi doesn't diminish my gratitude towards him

Avi Woolf | 21.01.25

A Very Mixed Bag

Politicians respond to IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi's resignation

Avi Woolf | 21.01.25

Long Overdue

Herzi HaLevi's resignation letter: 'The IDF is in a good place'

Gila Isaacson | 21.01.25

How the mighty have fallen

Families of October 7 victims slam IDF Chief's resignation: "Where's the call for an inquiry?"

Gila Isaacson | 21.01.25

Yes, Yes You Did

IDF General Yaron Finkelman resigns from Southern Command: "I failed to defend the western Negev"

Avi Woolf | 21.01.25

A Tank Officer Who Rose to the Top

PROFILE: Who is Eyal Zamir, the only real  candidate to replace Herzi Halevi?

Gila Isaacson | 21.01.25

Developing

BREAKING: IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi just resigned : "I am haunted by my failures to prevent October 7th" 

Gila Isaacson | עודכן ב 21.01.25

I Should Hope So

Benjamin Netanyahu on Iron Wall: We are attacking the Iranian axis everywhere

Avi Woolf | 21.01.25
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