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.
Katz said that the bill includes financial sanctions against any yeshiva that does not meet its quota and against men who are issued draft orders but do not show up.
Employees at Google have worked to provide Israel's military with access to its most advanced artificial intelligence.
Halevi's resignation in keeping with promise to take responsibility for October 7 • OC Southern Command Yaron Finkleman follows suit
The ‘Dror’ initiative aims to support the psychological, medical, and financial needs of the returning hostages and their families.
The problem runs deeper. Judging by his first two months as defense minister, Katz’s other task is to shift blame for the October 7 fiasco from the politicians to the generals.
Israel begins deploying $5.2B in US aid to enhance its missile shield, including Iron Dome upgrades and the new Iron Beam laser system that could slash interception costs.
In the meeting with local authorities, Katz discussed that Hamas originally planned to include West Bank communities in their October 7 attacks.
The deals are expected to bolster the country’s domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
The division, which will expand on the already-existing Released Soldiers’ Division and Fund, will include a dedicated branch for reservists’ welfare and be led by Col. (res.) Eyal Hans.
Yoav Gallant resigns from the Knesset over opposition to the haredi draft law as Likud advances legislation on military conscription for ultra-Orthodox Israelis.
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