Defense Minister Yoav Gallant participated this evening (Tuesday) in a ceremony of the IDF Intelligence Corps, marking 50 years since the Yom Kippur War. In his remarks, he referred to the lessons learned in the security establishment from the failures that were revealed during the days of the war and emphasized the importance of service in the IDF as a supreme national value.
"For 75 years, the State of Israel has been fighting for its existence, independence, sovereignty, and the lives of its citizens," said Gallant. "As a country located in the heart of a hostile environment, we are always at a numerical disadvantage against our enemies. Therefore, the key to making correct decisions and, as a result, organizing our forces effectively is intelligence. High-quality intelligence indicates what, how and when to defend and attack.
"The Yom Kippur War, which we are marking the 50th anniversary of these days, that war that shook the State of Israel and shattered the conception, is a vivid example of the dramatic influence of flawed intelligence, even when the intelligence picture is clear," he added. "Even today, decades after the war, its lessons are still deeply ingrained in us. We must be prepared for war, even if it comes as a surprise. Our duty is to be vigilant, cautious, and ready for the day of command. Those who seek peace must prepare for war."
According to him, "the ability of the security system to defend the State of Israel and be prepared for war relied, in the past and still based today on the people. It depends on internal resilience, the ability to recruit the best among us from all sectors of society, to train and choose leaders, those best suited for each role and position."
Furthermore, Gantz referred to the current crisis within the IDF and stated that "especially these days, we must uphold the meaningful service in the IDF as a supreme value and a leading institution in the country, both in the regular and reserve forces. In the face of all the challenges we face, growing external threats, and significant policy opportunities, we must stand united.
"On this evening, I also want to extend special words to the soldiers of the Intelligence Corps, the warriors of the classified operational units. You, time and time again, manage to turn the impossible into reality," Gantz concluded. "On behalf of the entire security establishment, and I'm sure on behalf of the citizens of Israel as well, I want to say to all of you - thank you."