Israel's Military

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is the most technologically advanced and proficient military in the Middle East, yet it defends a nation that is at both a geographic and demographic disadvantage. This page covers emerging trends in IDF development and offers insight into how Israel’s forces stack up against those of its neighbors and regional competitors.

Key Analysis
Phalanx Close-in Weapon System
U.S. Navy photo
The Phalanx close-in weapon system
Israel: A Prompt Defense Against Qassams
April 21, 2009 1843 GMT
Israel will buy a new U.S. defense system to deal with rockets and mortars fired from the Gaza Strip. (With STRATFOR map) [more]
A plume of smoke rises over Gaza
Israel, Gaza: Fighting In Tel Hawwa
January 15, 2009 1832 GMT
Despite continued fighting on the outskirts of Gaza City in Tel Hawwa, a major Israeli thrust into the heart of Gaza City is increasingly unlikely. (With Stratfor map) [more]
Israeli armored personnel carriers push toward the Gaza Strip
Israel, Gaza: A Temporary Cease-Fire, but Fighting Continues
January 7, 2009 1845 GMT
The Israeli offensive against Hamas saw its first temporary cease-fire Jan. 7, but the fighting continues. (With Stratfor map) [more]
Smoke rises after an Israeli Air Force strike
Israel, Gaza: Israeli Ground Operations Expand
January 6, 2009 2031 GMT
Israeli ground operations in the Gaza Strip expanded significantly overnight and into Jan. 6. [more]
Smoke rising over a mosque in the Gaza Strip
Israel, Gaza: Fighting Remains Light
January 5, 2009 1734 GMT
With Israel Defense Forces having surrounded Gaza City, engagement between Hamas and Israeli troops remains relatively limited -- so far. (With Stratfor map) [more]
Israeli troops entering Gaza
Gaza: Early Details of the Israeli Offensive
January 3, 2009 2302 GMT
Israeli troops moved into Gaza after darkness fell Jan. 3. (With Stratfor map) [more]
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