IDF reveals national defense strategy in unprecedented document release

By Jessica Weinstein, JC

Soldiers in the IDF

The IDF has released a document detailing the army’s national security strategy.

In an unprecedented move, IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot released the document to the public, setting out the army’s goals and the methods they intend to pursue.

Among them were plans to safeguard Israel’s international status, correct an inadequate response to terror groups, and fend off cyber attacks.

The 30-page document, simply titled “IDF Strategy”, was approved for public release by defence minister Moshe Ya'alon.

It reveals that the military strategy is based on the “security triangle” — a term coined by David Ben-Gurion. This “triangle” is comprised of “deterrence”, “early warning”, and “decisive victory”, with an additional new element called “defence”.

“The IDF has always drawn its strength from the quality of its personnel and the deep understanding that the military guarantees Israel’s national existence,” the document states.

“The IDF will spare no effort to defend and protect Israel under any circumstances, while exhausting the core characteristics of its commanders and soldiers: a fighting spirit, initiative and quality operation, and the uncompromising desire to achieve our objectives.”