The Israeli Defense Ministry is the government body that manages the security network and oversees security affairs for the state.
The state institutions managed by the Defense Ministry include the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), national museums, archives and memorials, as well as civil, political, and legal divisions that support the military and security network. The Defense Ministry serves as a bridge between the military and civilian infrastructure, including managing budgets, recruitment, and grand strategic decisions. The Defense Ministry also oversees and coordinates national emergencies and responses through the National Emergency Authority (NEMA).
In 2021, the defense minister was Benny Gantz and the director-general was Amir Eshel, who was appointed to the position in 2020. The ministry has had 21 ministers and 24 director-generals since its establishment until 2021. The ministry's headquarters is in Tel Aviv, in the Kirya.
The Defense Ministry works closely with Israeli defense industries. The International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT) lobbies foreign governments and holds exhibitions to secure contracts for Israeli private and public defense companies. The Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) researches and promotes new innovations in the fields of defense and security.
The Defense Ministry was established just after the dissolution of the British Mandate, in 1948, and collected and organized the Jewish militia groups into a concerted military and defense force.
the $5.2 billion agreement was part of a broader package of US aid approved by the US administration and Congress earlier this year and included an option for 25 additional aircraft.
Katz, who served as foreign minister starting in the beginning of 2024, has been known for posting AI photos to his X/Twitter account, including those of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Gallant's dismissal will take effect on Thursday, and the state demanded a response to determine whether to issue a directive regarding the move before it becomes official.
Firing Gallant, in and of itself, at this much later point in the war, may not be a game changer at all.
Experts warn of economic impact as Israel’s defense budget reaches 6.5% of GDP.
The investigation began as a covert probe during which suspicions arose that several contractors at bases and security facilities employed workers not in accordance with security protocols.
Yitzhak Rabin's enduring vision of peace through strength is more relevant than ever as Israel faces modern challenges to protect its citizens and future.
What is the system, and what are its advantages and disadvantages, and does it constitute the future of Israel's air defenses?
According to the division’s data, 93% of the wounded are men, 66% are reservists, and 51% are between the ages of 18 and 30.
Elbit stated that the contract was awarded to the company to supply Israel's Iron Beam air defense system with high-power laser systems.