Defense Ministry
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.
Israel to boost defense spending by NIS 42 b. in light of multi-front wars
The Director-General of the ministry, Maj.-Gen. Amir Baram said that this move would allow the ministry to replenish consumed stocks of weapons and ammunition.
Katz flying to DC to meet with Hegseth on Iran, weapons
'A miracle it ended with only minor wounds': IDF soldier wounded by accidental fire from Gaza
US D-9 bulldozers worth billions of shekels arrive in Israel after Trump admin. releases shipment
Rafael to sell interceptors to Romania in deal worth $2.2 billion
The SPYDER system from Rafael is heading toward a €1.9 billion deal in Romania, after the Israeli company surpassed competitors from Germany and France.
Rafael chairman, ex-minister Yuval Steinitz talks to 'Post' on Iran, Israel's defenses - interview
MILITARY AFFAIRS: Yuval Steinitz attributes much of Israel’s successful defense against Iranian attacks to Rafael’s multi-layered systems, such as the Iron Dome and David’s Sling.
Katz: Those engaged in violence against IDF soldiers must be 'dealt with severely'
The defense minister said that a joint enforcement body headed by police and including the IDF and Shin Bet will be established to coordinate efforts related to these incidents.
Gov't clears return of Gaza border residents amid security concerns - report
These communities include Kibbutz Be'eri, Hulit, Kissufim, Kfar Aza, Kerem Shalom, Nahal Oz, Nir Am, Nir Yitzhak, Nir Oz, Netiv Ha’asara, Sufa, and Ein Hashlosha.
Middle East arms race: IDF readying for another multi-front war with Iran, terror proxies
The IDF and Defense Ministry are focusing on launching technological and military upgrades with an emphasis on operational ranges of 2,000 km.
Israel to invest in 1,000 new public shelters, renovate 500 after Iranian missiles kill dozens
The government’s decision to greenlight new civil defense measures follows days of intensive attacks by Iran on civilian homes and infrastructure.
Katz: Hezbollah chief 'is not learning a lesson from his predecessors, I suggest he be careful'
Qassem stated that Iran’s nuclear program and uranium enrichment efforts were intended for “peaceful purposes, which it seeks to serve and advance its people.”
WATCH: Israel receives US-German military cargo shipment, Iran denounces US's 'complicity'
Since the start of Operation Rising Lion last Friday, 14 such planes have landed in Israel, along with over 800 others since the start of the Israel-Hamas War, the Defense Ministry noted.
Turkey promotes KAAN fighter jet at Paris Air Show as Israeli exhibits face restrictions
The 55th edition of the air show was also marked by controversy after organizers enclosed Israel’s defense industry booths behind black partition walls.
France blocks off Israel display at weapons conference
The Defense Ministry also accused France of specifically blocking off weapons which compete with French weapons as a sort of dirty competition trick.
Israel launches rescue operation to bring close to 150,000 stranded Israelis home
Operation 'Safe Return': Private airlines and the Mano Maritime shipping company will be mobilized to bring stranded Israelis home by air and by sea.
