Press Releases

July 29, 2020:

IDF: Please find attached the following message and photos regarding the visit of the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir and the national COVID-19 project manager, Prof. Ronni Gamzu, to the Home Front Command (HFC): https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zdefae.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/2D0GVLx

June 19, 2020:

Today (Friday), the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command, Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, the Commanding Officer of the Southern Division of the Home Front Command, Col. Yossi Cohen and the Home Front Command Operations Officer, Col. Liron Donnell visited in the towns of Ar’ara and Rahat along with the Head always of the Ar’ara Local Council and the Mayor of Rahat.

During the visit, the heads of the local municipalities presented current data regarding the spread of the virus and the assistance required to stop the infection rate in their communities.

The Home Front Command has been operating in the Bedouin sector over the past few months, and is currently increasing its activity with the help of approximately 45 reserve soldiers, with emphasis on providing information to the said sector and evacuating to hotels for isolation and recovery.

Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command, Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin: "We will stay and help here until we solve this problem.

In cooperation with the Israeli Police, HMOs and local municipalities, we will do our best to reduce the spread of the virus, but you as a community are required to help as well.

The main effort in reducing the spread is taking patients out of the community and into designated recovery hotels.

The Home Front Command will assist and support as much as necessary in order to get things back to normal.״

The IDF is conducting ongoing situation assessments regarding the reduction of the spread of the coronavirus. Yesterday (Thursday) the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir, held a discussion on this matter in which the current situation in the IDF, along with recommendations for further action required to be taken based on various scenarios were discussed. In addition, there will be an enhancement of enforcement of personal and military health guidance and prevention of infection by commanders and military police.

The Deputy Chief of the General Staff emphasized the responsibility of the commanders to maintain the operational capabilities of their units and the soldiers' health in particular, and following the Ministry of Health and IDF guidelines in general.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zf3jdw.htm

In addition, please find attached the following video: https://bit.ly/2BhG1ct

May 7, 2020:

IDF: Yesterday (Wednesday), an online forum was conducted with the participation of various Air Force Commanders from different militaries around the world. The forum was led by the Commanding Officer of the Israeli Air Force, Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin.

Among the participants were the commanding officers of the following air forces: Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

The forum was held with the aim of facilitating learning between the air forces regarding management of the air forces and the maintaining of operational abilities while fighting against the Corona virus. The Commanders exchanged insights and lessons accumulated during this period, and shared their various modus operandi in order to learn and create mutual cooperation in the fight against the virus. 

The IAF will continue to maintain international and operational cooperation during routine and emergency situations in order to protect Israel's skies.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3z3x3tw.htm 

May 3, 2020:

IDF: Over the past week, the Home Front Command in cooperation with the Israeli Police, MDA and the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) are working in order to reduce the spread of the Corona virus at the Hura Local Council, following the increase of Corona virus patients. 

Today (Sunday), as part of the public outreach effort to the Council residents, a door-to-door campaign was carried out by representatives of the Home Front Command in neighborhoods where restrictions have been imposed and in public spaces. In addition, approximately 4,500 information brochures have been distributed. 

In addition, some 250 food packages and approximately 150 boxes of fruits and vegetables will be distributed to council residents.

Since the outbreak of the virus, approximately 55 patients from the local council have been transferred to quarantine hotels, approximately 20 of them transferred over the last weekend.

This mission is led by the HFC Southern District Bedouin Rescue Battalion, which is responsible for assisting Bedouin communities. 

The Southern District Forces of the Home Front Command are prepared and ready to carry out the national mission to rescue lives.

Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command’s Southern Division, Col. Yossi Cohen: "We are in Hura in a concentrated effort to stop the spread of the virus. We are making great efforts here to help those in need together with the ministry of Social Affairs, in the distribution of food, medicine and door-to-door information.

I am convinced that in a joint effort we will be able to curb the epidemic as we have successfully done in other places as well."

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3z3t3aj.htm

April 29, 2020:

IDF: At this time, the IAF Independence Day flyover continues, as a token of honor and salute to the medical teams, Magen David Adom (MDA) teams and Kupot Holim (HMO’s). 

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zxafxj.htm

 

April 19, 2020: 

Today (Sunday), the Home Front Command launched a dedicated awareness campaign for Israeli Arab communities. The purpose of the campaign is to provide instructions to the Muslim public on how to celebrate Ramadan while minimizing the risk of spreading the virus. 

During the month of Ramadan, the Home Front Command's information portal and social media platforms will disseminate approximately 20 videos. All videos are related to Ramadan and tailored for various target audiences such as children, families and the elderly. 

As part of the campaign, billboard posters will be distributed to local municipalities, and 270,000 brochures and stickers in Arabic that include instructions and advice will be distributed as well. 

In addition, today (Sunday), food packaging in the various logistic centers was renewed following Passover. Over the next few days, over 100,000 food packages are expected to be distributed to civilians. 

During the day, approximately 250,000 food packages were distributed in various cities and communities across Israel. Among these were Bnei Brak, Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh, Modi'in Illit and El'ad. Up until now, over 2,500,000 food packages and meals have been distributed to civilians.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zx3ed3.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/34LVM62

 

April 17, 2020:

Please find attached the following visuals regarding the completion of the “Breathing Air” project, 

Photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zxxefx.htm 

In addition, attached are videos on the subject:

Video 1: https://bit.ly/2VDxGpR

Video 2: https://bit.ly/3cth5Mz

 

April 15, 2020:

Today (Wednesday), April 15, 2020, a situation assessment was conducted as part of the IDF assistance to Israeli Arabs. The situation assessment was conducted in the village of Deir al-Assad, and was led by the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command, Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, with the participation of heads of Israeli Arab municipalities as well as representatives of the Ministry of Health, Israeli Police and the MDA. 

Data regarding the IDF assistance to Israeli Arab communities as part of the fight against COVID-19:

• Over 185,000 meals have been distributed since the IDF began distributing food in Israeli Arab communities, approximately two weeks ago.

• In order to execute these efforts, approximately 80 IDF reservists were recruited and designated to assist various Israeli Arab municipalities across Israel. This is in addition to the IDF service members currently assisting in the field.

• Over the past week, approximately 3,000 hygiene kits were distributed in Bedouin communities in the Negev. Among other products, the kits include information brochures in Arabic, offered by the Ministry of Health. This was led by the Home Front Command's Southern District and in cooperation with the Bedouin Administration.

• The Home Front Command launched a national emergency portal in Arabic in order to provide Israeli Arabs with accessible information.

• Four mobile "drive-thru" facilities of the MDA were opened, with the assistance of the Home Front Command, in Eastern Jerusalem, Jisr az-Zarqa, Fureidis and Rahat.

Please find attached the following photographs depicting the IDF’s assistance to Israeli Arab populations: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zxzdet.htm

In addition, attached is a video depicting the IDF assistance as well as the situation assessment conducted today by the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command in the village of Deir al-Assad: https://bit.ly/2XHkgMj

 

April 13, 2020:

Starting from today (Monday), until the beginning of the second Eve of Passover, IDF troops will assist civilians living in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip and in the cities of Sderot and Eilat. Soldiers and commanders from the Southern Command, the Gaza Division and the 80th Division, in cooperation with local authorities and other volunteers, have come together for the purpose of distributing food packages for the second Eve of Passover. The food will be distributed to the elderly in addition to other civilians in need in order to help them abide by the guidelines and not leave their homes.

The IDF continues to operate in order to support the national effort to limit the spread of coronavirus among the civilian population. 

The Head of the Home Front Command of the Gaza Division, Lt. Col. Itzik Vaknin: "The connection with the local civilians and authorities in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip as well as the assistance offered to civilians during this period of dealing with the coronavirus is an integral part of the continuous cooperation between the Gaza Division and the Home Front Command in both routine and emergency situations. 

The Command will continue working in order to assist the local authorities with food distribution to the elderly and those in need in order to maintain the population’s health. This, by carrying out any mission that is necessary, is similar to the support offered throughout the year.”

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zxztwf.htm

In addition, please find attached the following footage: https://bit.ly/3ccPzCM

 

April 12, 2020:

As part of the IDF’s assistance in fighting coronavirus, various IDF units are working on developing applicable and advanced solutions to assist the civilian population.

The Israeli Navy’s Commando unit, Shayetet 13, has extensive experience in scuba diving and independent compression of oxygen gas into containers. 

Over the past few weeks, a number of teams from Shayetet 13 have developed a solution for civilians who are in need of oxygen tanks for medical purposes. The development teams have converted the operational production line into a medical oxygen compressing system, following required standards and protocols, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, “Yad Sarah,” and other organizations. Along with development and supply, the unit assists with the logistics and delivery of the oxygen tanks as needed. 

In addition, by sharing its knowledge with foreign militaries, the model can be applied in multiple ways to assist the global effort to combat the virus. This IDF initiative has been shared with foreign armies via video and written tutorials.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zxteje.htm

In addition, Please find attached the following video: https://bit.ly/3a1QGDT

 

April 7, 2020:

Data regarding the IDF assistance to the civilian population as part of the fight against the coronavirus: 

• Over the past week, IDF troops packed approximately 1,610,000 food packages for Passover and the weekend.

• Today (Tuesday), 118,635 food packages were distributed to civilians across Israel.

• Approximately 15,000 food packages were distributed in the city of Bnei Brak by the troops of the 98th Division. The packages contained dry goods, vegetables, fruits and toilet paper.

• 18,000 IDF commanders and soldiers will continue assisting in aid missions to civilian populations as necessary.

• IDF troops have assisted approximately 192 housing projects until now. Today, they also began assisting geriatric facilities across Israel. Approximately 40 educational frameworks were opened by the IDF Education and Youth Corps that provide childcare to the children of medical staff throughout the country. Approximately 20 additional programs will be operated starting within the next two weeks.

• Today (Tuesday), approximately 8,000 calls were made to the Home Front Command information center. In addition, approximately 25,000 calls were made to the national civilian aid center.

• As of this day, 12 hotels aimed at hosting coronavirus patients with mild symptoms are operating. Eight of these hotels are hosting people who tested positive for the virus, and four are hosting quarantined civilians. Four of these hotels are for the ultra-Orthodox . The hotels are currently hosting approximately 1,044 coronavirus patients and 578 quarantined people. The hotels will also be hosting a Passover Eve dinner; the Dan Panorama Hotel will host a dinner for approximately 500 guests and the Nir Etzion Hotel is preparing to host approximately 300 guests.

  Until now approximately 10,169 blood donations have been collected in the IDF.

---

Last night (Monday), April 6th, 2020, a food packaging and distribution operation was carried out across the cities of Bnei Brak and Beitar Illit as part of the IDF's efforts to aid civilian populations. The operation was led by the 98th Division, along with commanders and soldiers from the Home Front Command, the Logistics Corps of the Central Command, officers of the Command & Staff Course of the IDF Military Colleges and an additional company of the "Nahal" Brigade.

Overnight, approximately 50 tons of fruits and vegetables were packed, including 7 tons of peppers, 7 tons of cucumbers, 5.7 tons of oranges, 10 tons of potatoes, approximately 8 tons of sweet potatoes, 10 tons of carrots, and approximately 1.5 tons of lemons and clementines. All of this was packed into approximately 8,000 packages. Over the past two days, approximately 15,000 packages were distributed by the troops of the 98th Division to families across Bnei Brak.

The Logistics officer of the Judea and Samaria Division, Lt. Col. Chai Kfir: "We are deployed in great numbers to assist the municipality with food distribution to the families of the sick, the quarantined, and the elderly to allow them to celebrate the Seder (Passover Eve) with dignity and without having to leave their homes. Our mission here is a resounding expression of solidarity and saving lives.”

Logistics Officer of the 55th Brigade, Maj. Eliran Usher: "Over the past day, we have received approximately 50 tons of fruits and vegetables and packed them into 8,000 packages. Thanks to our soldiers, all the packages will make their way to the residents of Bnei Brak. We will continue assisting and supporting the civilians in Bnei Brak and throughout Israel as necessary."

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzafjz.htm

In addition, attached is a video of the Logistics Officer of the 55th Brigade, Maj. Eliran Usher: https://bit.ly/2Xdhr5v

 

April 5, 2020:

Today (Sunday), the Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi visited Bnei Brak, escorted by the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command, Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, the Commanding Officer of the 98th Division, Brig. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, and other commanders. 

During the visit, the main efforts made by the Home Front Command and the 98th Division to assist the city were presented. The Chief of the General Staff also visited the food distribution center, where the food is packed and distributed to the residents of the city.

The Chief of the General Staff was briefed by the Commanding Officer of the 98th Division about the steps taken so far as well as the preparations and plans regarding the forces' operation in the future. 

The Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, to the troops: "The phrase 'the people’s army' is of particular relevance to the IDF soldiers carrying out a life-saving mission, an expression of mutual responsibility in Israel. We will continue to expand our assistance to local authorities wherever the need for extensive and quick assistance exists. I am proud of your efforts, of the quick engagement, and swift execution.”

Please find attached the following photographs depicting the Chief of the General Staff's visit: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzwjwa.htm

---

Today (Sunday), the Home Front Command began its assistance to the city of Bnei Brak. The soldiers of the 98th Division arrived in the city and began assisting the local authority.

The soldiers are currently distributing food supplies to civilians and medicine to those in need.

The Division is ready to fulfill the national mission of saving lives. The Home Front Command will continue to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus and save human lives.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzwdaz.htm

April 3, 2020:

Today, the Minister of Interior, Aryeh Deri, and the Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, discussed the assistance to the city of Bnei Brak and its residents as part of the effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.  

As part of the conversation, the Chief of the General Staff offered several courses of action and means that the IDF can employ to help the city's residents prevent the spread.  

It was concluded that the IDF, with the 98th Division HQ operating under the Home Front Command, will begin assisting civilian areas in the city shortly.

The Chief of the General Staff emphasized to the minister that the IDF will act as required in order to help Bnei Brak in civilian areas in these challenging times.

 

April 2, 2020:

Over the past weeks, the IDF has been taking an active part in the effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus. IDF service members have been assisting Israeli civilians, government offices, the MDA and the Israeli Police in various fields and will continue to support them as necessary.

Please find attached the following visuals:

Photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzfajd.htm

Video: https://bit.ly/3dO6oWh

In addition, attached is an infographic of the IDF current main efforts: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzfjea.htm

April 1, 2020:

The IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi tested negative for the coronavirus. 

The Chief of the General Staff is currently feeling well and will remain in quarantine until the end of the week, in accordance with the restrictions. The results of the coronavirus tests of the Head of the Operations Directorate and the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command are yet to be received.

 

March 31, 2020:

Today (Tuesday) the IDF began expanding its civil aid assistance, paying special attention to the elderly population at risk across Israel. The assistance will be given according to the needs defined by government offices.

In coordination with local authorities, the Home Front Command will assist the elderly in order to reduce their exposure to the virus and prevent the spread of the virus.

At this stage, 1,000 IDF soldiers from various units will be deployed according to their geographical location. Each officer and four soldiers will be assigned to a housing area. The IDF will assist approximately 200 such housing areas.

The units will assist in various ways, such as providing information suited to the population's needs in different languages, assisting with food distribution according to the authority's requirements, implementing the Ministry of Health's guidelines and restrictions, assisting in different incidents, and providing additional services that may be required (medicine, social security etc.).

The Home Front Command continues to take extensive actions to provide assistance in various fields to the government offices, MDA and the civilian population in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus. In addition, soldiers from the Search and Rescue Brigade in the Home Front Command will help supply food, in cooperation with the Technological and Logistics Directorate, to the groups defined by the local authorities.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzex3d.htm

In attached, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/341075e

---

Ten days ago, on March 22nd, 2020, the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, attended a meeting with the commanders of the liaison unit to local authorities of the Home Front Command.

 One of the commanders in reserve service was diagnosed with coronavirus today.

In accordance with the Ministry of Health's guidelines, the Chief of the General Staff will enter quarantine in his office until this weekend, and will continue his regular schedule thereafter.

At this time, the Chief of the General Staff is not suffering any symptoms, is feeling well, and will be tested in the next few minutes.

 The Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command and the Head of the Operations Directorate also attended the same meeting and will enter quarantine until the end of the week.

---

As of midday Tuesday, approximately 600 IDF commanders and soldiers from training bases will start assisting the Israeli Police in implementing the Ministry of Heath's and the government's restrictions for civilians by performing patrols, isolating and securing areas, blocking routes and more.

The relevant troops underwent preparation to operate in civilian environments, led by the IDF Ground Forces and the Behavioral Science Department in the Manpower Directorate. The commanders and soldiers were introduced to the characteristics of the mission, the challenges it holds, analyzed possible scenarios and learned how to create common language and coordinate between multiple security forces. The operational protocols in civilian areas were clarified as well.

 Each soldier will operate with a police officer and will wear a badge with Israel's flag on it. Only commanders will carry weapons.

The IDF will continue assisting in the fight against the spread of the Corona virus within civilian areas as necessary, while following the Ministry of Health's instructions.

Commander of the Golani Brigade training base, Lt. Col. Sivan Bloch, to his soldiers: "We trained you to fight against enemies in Lebanon, Syria, the Judea and Samaria area and Gaza. This time, you fight against a slightly different enemy—the coronavirus. We must perform this mission with the highest quality and in the most professional way we can. This is our duty. You are now in a civilian environment, Tiberias, Afula, Rosh Pinna. You are about to assist police officers perform their mission and your presence enables us to enhance the number of police officers and by that making sure that Israeli civilians follow the instructions. This is our part in combating the spread of coronavirus".

Commander of the Border Protection Array training base, Lt. Col. Ido Saad: "Following significant preparations over the past few days, we are ready to perform the IDF's most important mission—defending Israel's citizens. We will continue to operate as necessary to restore the civilian routine in the country as fast and best as we possibly can.”

Please find attached the following related visuals:

Photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zz3fat.htm

Video: https://bit.ly/2UvKT4I

 

March 30, 2020:

Yesterday (Sunday), the joint Israeli Air Force (IAF)-US Air Force (USAF) "Enduring Lightening" Exercise over southern Israel concluded.

The exercise took place over southern Israel, in which Israeli and American F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets practiced mitigating various strategic aerial and ground threats. The cooperation between both air forces included the opportunity to share lessons learned.

Alongside the concern for the health of service members, the IAF continues to maintain full operational capabilities to fulfill its mission—protecting Israel’s skies, in routine and emergency situations.

The exercise was planned in advance as part of the IDF's 2020 training regimen and executed despite the spread of the coronavirus, following the required procedures and adjusting the exercise to them.

The IAF and the USAF teams engaged only in the air, and briefed and debriefed all parties via remote video conference.

The exercise illustrates the close ties between both air forces and militaries, expands the shared knowledge and learning of the F-35’s advanced capabilities, and improves the operational capabilities of the IAF.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zz3zxe.htm

---

Today (Sunday), the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, visited the Tel Hashomer base at the Information and Knowledge Plant and the Control Center of Tests of the Intelligence Directorate.

The visit was accompanied by the head of the Intelligence Directorate, Maj. Gen. Tamir Haiman, and other commanders.

During the visit, the Chief of the General Staff spoke to senior personnel in the Ministry of Health and discussed the main activities of the Intelligence Directorate and the Technology and Logistics Directorate in assisting civilians at this time. Among the participants in the meeting were Y, the Commanding Officer of the Special Operations Unit, Brig. Gen. A, Head of the Technology Arena in the Research Division, Col. N., Director of the Clalit Research Institute, Professor Ran Blitzer, Head of the Health Service Center, Professor Sigal Sadecki, and Director of Medical the Technologies Information and Research Division, Dr. Osnat Luxenbourg.

As part of the meeting, the Chief of the General Staff examined the work of the Information and Knowledge Enterprise which is a multidisciplinary organization led by the Research Division and Unit 8200.

The organization operates under the Ministry of Health and attempts to create a large database on which advanced capabilities of artificial intelligence and machine learning will be used. This is done in order to get answers to questions raised by the Ministry of Health and the Home Front Command.

The Chief of the General Staff met and spoke with soldiers serving in the Technological Unit in the Intelligence Directorate and the Special Operations Unit on the subject of the development of respirators in cooperation with the Sheba Tel Hashomer Hospital, based on standard respirators.

Afterwards, he was presented with the unit's work of creating protective masks for medical teams from which more than 7,000 masks have been transferred to be used by the IDF. 

In addition, the unit also continues to transform ambulances into adapted vehicles to evacuate coronavirus patients, through unique protection in the interior of the vehicle.

Please find attached the following video: https://bit.ly/2JqGpGt

March 27, 2020:

The IDF continues in its efforts to limit the spread of the coronavirus, and works in cooperation with government ministries and other organizations with the aim of assisting Israeli civilians, preventing infection among IDF service members, and maintaining functional and operational abilities of the IDF. 

The Home Front Command continues in its widespread assistance to various government ministries, MDA and civilians as well as local municipalities in an effort to prevent the virus from spreading.

Please find attached the following photographs: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzzfef.htm

In addition, yesterday (Thursday), the soldiers and commanders of the Gaza Division, including those from the Northern and Southern Regional Brigades, distributed gift packages to each house in the Sderot Negev Regional Council, located in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip.

Please find attached the following pictures: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3zzzfew.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/2QQme8T

March 26, 2020:

Following the Ministry of Health's instructions to gradually cancel public transport and as a part of the IDF's efforts to fight the coronavirus while preserving its operational capabilities, a transport array for IDF service members has been established. The array will begin operating today (Thursday), March 26, 2020, and will allow service members to transit between IDF bases safely. The array will operate between Sundays and Thursdays from the morning hours until the evening.

The array will include 260 buses that will drive around the country between bases, in addition to the public transportation already available. The array will keep operating in case public transportation stops completely.

Each bus will be led by a commander who will control the number of passengers, and will make sure all soldiers answer a designated health questionnaire before going on the bus. In addition, the bus drivers will sign a statement before any soldier gets on their bus. If one of the passengers isn't feeling well, they must report it to the bus commander. They will not be allowed to go on the bus and the case will be reported to his commanders and the relevant medical professionals.

The transport array was planned in cooperation with different commands and services to allow for safe arrival as much as possible to a large number of IDF bases.

Please find attached the following video: https://bit.ly/2xtSLdW

March 25, 2020:

Following the announcement yesterday (Tuesday), the international military exercise of the IAF and the USAF over southern Israel, which was intended to commence yesterday, has been postponed at the request of the USAF and will be rescheduled to a later date in order to complete the necessary coordination efforts.

 

March 24, 2020:

Today (Tuesday), the IDF Coronavirus Detection Laboratory opened at the Tzrifin Military Rabbinate Base, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. The laboratory is capable of testing hundreds of coronavirus samples a day. Samples will be collected by a dedicated staff consisting of the Military Police, the Logistics Corps and the Medical Corps.

In order to operate the lab, a dedicated branch has been established at the "MiKol HaLev" call center. Soldiers suffering from symptoms may turn to the center for advice.

This move is part of the IDF's efforts in the fight against coronavirus and is one of the steps taken by the Medical Corps and the Military Rabbinate in order to maintain the IDF’s operational capabilities. This is part of the national assistance effort that the IDF is currently providing to the civilian health care system.

The Surgeon General of the IDF Medical Corps, Brig. Gen. Dr. Tarif Bader: "We are proud of the effort to convert the DNA lab into a laboratory capable of coronavirus detection. This is thanks to the hard work of IDF Medical Corps professionals. This move makes a significant contribution to the ability of the Medical Corps to respond to IDF needs during this epidemic as well as contributes to IDF capabilities."

Chief Military Rabbi, Brig. Gen. Eyal Karim: "The Military Rabbinate is the body that is trusted in routine times and times of emergency to process our fallen soldiers and identify their bodies. As such, the DNA Laboratory at the Military Rabbinate base was established as an advanced addition to existing capabilities. Two weeks ago, we identified the potential to convert the lab and its machinery into a lab to identify the coronavirus. We will continue to assist in any task required during these complex days.”

Please find attached the following photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztjwfz.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/39b8egk

---

Today (Tuesday), in the afternoon hours, an international military exercise of the IAF and the U.S. military will start over southern Israel, expected to end on Thursday afternoon. During the exercise, an increased level of F-35 fighter jet traffic will be heard. The exercise will be conducted only in the air and no meetings will be held on ground.

The exercise was planned in advance as part of the IDF's scheduled exercises in 2020, with the aim of improving force capabilities and readiness.

 

March 23, 2020:

During the past week, IDF soldiers and commanders have been participating in a blood drive in order to meet the goal set by the Chief of the General Staff: 7,000 blood transfusions. The Chief of the General Staff himself took part in the effort, and donated blood yesterday (Sunday), in a special ambulance at Tel HaShomer base.

Please find attached the following photo: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztaeez.htm

March 22, 2020:

Earlier today (Sunday), the Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, visited the Golani Brigade's training base, in which 500 newly recruited combat soldiers arrived this morning, in order to observe the recruitment process. The Chief of the General Staff also visited the "MiKol HaLev" center, which is playing a major role in the efforts made to prepare the IDF to face the coronavirus, where he learned about implementing instructions, and the actions and challenges of the people who serve there.

Alongside the preparations, the new soldiers were recruited today under the instructions and procedures meant to prevent the spread of the virus. In addition, various adjustments were made in the various training bases in which new recruits arrived. The Golani Brigade training base prepared, among other things, for the recruitment of new soldiers by moving the other soldiers training in the base to the "Elyakim" Command Training Base.This is to reduce the number of those staying there and maximizing separation between those remaining on base and the new recruits. In addition, the reception of soldiers in the brigade training base was conducted in two large open tents as a substitute for office reception.

Please find attached the following photos:  https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztae3e.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/2vK4B3m

---

Following the spread of the coronavirus, actions regarding a lockdown have been enforced in Germany leading to hotels being shut down. Subsequently, today (Sunday), approximately 30 combat troops of the Israeli Navy in mandatory service were returned from Germany to Israel by a designated IAF delegation. The delegation consisted of 16 aircrew members on an IAF KC-707 ("Re'em") cargo plane.

The troops recently stayed in Germany as part of their role as crew members of the "Sa'ar 6" Israeli Navy ship, expected to arrive in Israel later this year. The troops will immediately go into quarantine upon their return, in accordance with the instructions of the Ministry of Health. Service members in professional service working on the project will continue their work in the shipyard in Germany.

 

March 21, 2020:

The IDF continues its efforts to prepare for and combat the spread of the coronavirus and operates in cooperation with government offices and other organizations in order to assist the civilian population and prevent contamination among IDF service members, while preserving its operational capabilities. 

The Home Front Command continues its efforts to provide assistance in many fields to various government offices, to Magen David Adom (MDA) and to the civilian population in the effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Yesterday (Friday), approximately 40 combat troops from the Search and Rescue Brigade and the Jerusalem and Central Home Front Command Districts, assisted the local authorities in evacuating and sanitizing a hostel in the city of Gedera in which a staff member was diagnosed with coronavirus. The teams sanitized the hostel, while allowing quarantine for the civilians living in it without causing panic or affecting their routine.

The IDF and the Home Front Command will assist as needed in the national mission to prevent the spread of the virus.

The commander of the "Shahar" Battalion, Lt. Col. Idan Parkin: "This week, the troops participated in an exercise that included providing help to the public during emergencies. A short while after, they were required to operate in an incident like that in real time. Approximately 40 troops arrived at the hostel and re-organized it in order to quarantine the civilians. They sanitized the building effectively while remaining sensitive in working with a special needs population. I'm proud of the troops who are doing their job thoroughly and professionally. This is additional proof that the Home Front Command is prepared to assist at any time and place as needed."  

Please find attached the following photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztddjf.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/39ckcpU

---

Over the weekend, the IDF opened the recovery-village in the Yahad Lemaan Hahayal Recreation Resort in Ashkelon. The facility has started to receive patients in moderate condition.

Lt. Col. Oshrat Gozlan, commander of the recovery village and Head Nurse in the IDF: "The first patients were admitted and housed in their rooms. They are all feeling well and we are monitoring them continuously. The IDF Medical Corps and the logistics teams are prepared and ready to treat all IDF service members as needed".

Please find attached the following photos from the recovery village: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztddjx.htm

We would like to emphasize that as long as public transport continues, IDF service members should use it. The IDF is prepared to establish a national transport array if required.

March 20, 2020:

As part of the IDF's efforts to fight the coronavirus and to prevent and reduce its spread among its soldiers, the Yahad Lemaan Hahayal recreation resort in Ashkelon, has recently been converted into a recovery-village, which will serve as a facility for sick soldiers in mandatory and professional service. The conversion of the resort was led by Yahad Lemaan Hahayal and the IDF Medical Corps. The recovery-village opened its gates today (Friday) and will begin receiving patients.

The patients will be accompanied throughout their stay by a doctor and a nurse whom they can contact through a special app. Each patient will receive a personalized medical kit that will track their rate of recovery. In addition, an area has been established in the recovery village where it will be possible to move freely within  protocols.

The Surgeon General of the IDF Medical Corps, Brig. Gen. Dr. Tarif Bader: "The Medical Corps is prepared to provide the best response to IDF soldiers in all conditions and is implementing our responsibility to our soldiers' health, alongside contributing to the national medical effort."

Please find attached the following photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztdxf3.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/2x7Xpyg

---

Please find attached the following photos from the IDF's efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus among its service members and the activity in different units: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztdxxd.htm

In addition, please find attached the following photos from the developments of the Technological Unit of the Intelligence Directorate: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztdx3x.htm

 

March 19, 2020:

As part of the IDF's efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus among its service members, the different units maintain operational continuity while implementing the Ministry of Health's instructions. Attached are visuals of the preparations of various units while implementing the different instructions: fever examinations at the entrance to IDF essential facilities, distribution of protective gear and disinfection kits, blood donations, and recruitments as per the Ministry of Health's protocol.

Photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztdzwt.htm

Video: https://bit.ly/3bcnLxE

The Technological Unit of the Intelligence Directorate helps with technological solutions to deal with the coronavirus.

Please find the following text and photos:

https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztdzdt.htm

Attached is a video of the development of a ventilator for coronavirus patients: https://bit.ly/392fElZ

 

March 18, 2020:

Today (Wednesday), the Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, visited the Home Front Command, along with the Commanding Officer of the Home Front Command, Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, the Commanding Officer of the Manpower Directorate, Maj. Gen. Moti Almoz, and other commanders.

During the visit, the Home Front Command presented the main efforts that are being made to assist Israeli civilians, including the health system, organized assistance at hospitals, Magen David Adom, information campaigns, preparing local authorities for emergencies and more.

The Chief of the General Staff spoke with soldiers from the Home Front Command that are manning the call center, which will soon be open for the benefit of Israeli civilians. Later, he visited the Joint Information Center of the Home Front Command and MDA. As part of the tour, he was briefed about the challenges the soldiers in mandatory and reserve service who are manning the center face.  

The Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi: "This is an emergency time and the IDF adjusts its activity to fit its needs and the requirements of the state, and you are a great example of that. The IDF is already working in a number of areas in order to assist, and will continue to work on any required task. All IDF soldiers are required to prepare for further developments—as always, we will be ready for every mission. Your role in assisting the civilians directly affects the ability of the State of Israel to cope with the spread of the virus."

Please find attached the following photos:

https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztwxjf.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: 

https://bit.ly/2ISUv3b

 

March 17, 2020:

Today (Tuesday), in accordance with the instructions of the Minister of Defense, the Home Front Command and the Ministry of Defense launched the first hotel aimed at hosting coronavirus patients in light condition.

The hotel will open at the Dan Panorama Hotel in Tel Aviv under the management and command of a senior reserve officer operating under the Home Front Command.

‎‏Later in the week another hotel is expected to open at the Dan Hotel in Jerusalem.

This morning, logistical-medical equipment was made available for use by the medical staff staying at the facility.

‎The hotel will include a separated situation room to allow the coordination between the medical services as well as medical surveillance teams to the hotel management team and the Israeli Police, whose role is to enforce the entry to the facility.

‎‏The admission of patients will be done by coordination and written referral of the Kupat Holim (HMO's). 

Unauthorized entry will not be allowed.

‎‏Medical treatment is under the responsibility of the Ministry of Health and HMO's.

‎‏The Home Front Command's logistics and medical arrays have assisted in preparing the hotels for guest reception.

‎‏In the first stage, only 20 patients will be accommodated in the hotel, and subsequently the amount will be expanded as needed and possible.

Please find attached the following photos: https://app.activetrail.com/S/eiwi3ztf3wj.htm

In addition, attached is a related video: https://bit.ly/2TUoAW8