IDF chief shares Rosh Hashana message
In special New Year message to Ynet readers, IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz speaks of challenges ahead, commends troops for dedication
Commanders, troops, and the Israeli nation,
As the person standing at the head of the IDF, as an Israeli and as a Jew, Rosh Hashanah presents a day of self-scrutiny on a personal and national level. It is a day when we must examine the steps we have taken in the passing year and look ahead to the future and what it holds.
During this last year which is now coming to a close, the IDF has improved its capabilities on all fronts as well as its ability to provide an operational response to a variety of threats. Our readiness level is high and we must work to ensure it remains so.
The past year will be engraved upon our memories and in the history books as the year of awakening and of struggles – as the year of uprisings that have fundamentally changed the face of the Middle East. These transformations raise our hopes for positive changes and yet, they have also created new security challenges for the State of Israel.
We will be required to deal with these challenges on all fronts, both in the short term as well as the long term. Even at the height of the turmoil the IDF will continue to be a rock of stability and a beacon of support in the changing landscape.
In light of these challenges, the IDF will continue to stand guard in the upcoming year – 5772. I meet them daily and I can safely say; there is no one more worthy and more qualified to withstand the trials ahead.
Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Benny Gantz (Photo: IDF Spokesman)
Even on the eve of the approaching holiday, many of them will be marking the New Year far from their families and loved ones. With willingness and a sense of mission they man the positions to the length and breadth of our country, watching over us.
These troops are our greatest pride. In them we put our faith and our hopes!
As the New Year approaches, we send a warm and valiant embrace to the dear members of the bereaved families and as always, we stand at their side as a strong support system as they deal with the pain of bereavement. Together, we say a prayer for the safe and swift return of our captive and missing comrades to their families and we will continue to do everything possible to bring them safely home.
With best wishes for a happy New Year, a safe New Year, prosperity and stability,
Lieutenant General Binyamin (Benny) Gantz, IDF chief of staff
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