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.
Jewish extremists resisted the removal, including throwing rocks at soldiers and wounding two IDF troops.
The systems are set to "upgrade the operational capabilities of the forces on the ground," the ministry stated.
Dr. Petri conveyed a message from Argentine President Dr. Javier Milei, reaffirming Argentina's strong support for Israel's right to self-defense.
There are plans to build around 1,700 safe rooms in Kiryat Shmonah alone, and around 10,000 for the entire 0-5 kilometer area.
Petri’s itinerary includes “negotiations for the acquisition of defense technologies, high-level meetings to promote the transfer of knowledge and technology in the security sector."
Both Israel Katz and Yoav Gallant, the current and former defense minister, condemned the attempted attacks on Friday night.
Yitzhak Rabin spoke of the importance of manpower and mobilizing reservists following the Yom Kippur War, echoing modern sentiments.
Representatives of the Ministry of Defense, investors, and entrepreneurs participated in a conference dedicated to startups operating in the security field.
If executed properly, this new body could potentially help save Israel from future disasters like October 7.
Gallant, who also spoke, expressed gratitude and appreciation for the IDF commanders and soldiers, as well as members of the security forces, regular and reserve.
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