The IDF’s 162nd Division has been carrying out prolonged operations in northern Gaza, including the recent expansion into Beit Lahia. Amidst the devastation of Jabaliya, Major A has emerged as a pivotal figure. As the first female Operations Officer (Katzin Agam) in the elite Refaim unit, she plays a crucial role in one of the IDF’s most innovative combat forces.
Before this groundbreaking position, Major A served as the deputy commander of a combat platoon in Yahalom (Combat Engineering Corps’ elite "Diamond" unit), and spent her second year leading maneuver operations in Gaza.
Reflecting on her decision to continue her service, she shared, "I had a dilemma this summer about leaving the IDF after my time in Yahalom. But with the fighting still ongoing, I couldn’t bring myself to leave Gaza. I felt I had more to give."
Originally from a community near Jerusalem and now based in Tel Aviv, Major A’s career has been defined by breaking barriers. She began her service as a combat soldier and officer in the Gaza Division’s reconnaissance unit and later commanded an observation company, working alongside Colonel Tal Ashur, now leading the Refaim unit.
Established four years ago, Refaim serves as the experimental and developmental arm of the IDF’s ground forces, testing cutting-edge combat strategies and technologies. The unit’s soldiers undergo rigorous commando training and are at the forefront of operational innovation, particularly in the use of drones to detect and eliminate threats.
Following the tragic death of Colonel Roi Levi in October, Major A has played a key role in managing the unit’s operations, including the complex missions in Jabaliya and the Nitzarim corridor. Despite its small size, Refaim has made significant strides in combat innovation, with Major A central to its success in these critical operations.
"I never imagined I’d become a deputy battalion commander in Yahalom, let alone lead a combat platoon and enter tunnels in Gaza," Major A reflected. "I commanded forces tasked with destroying tunnel infrastructure, and being a female officer in this role was unique. I was often the first commanding figure in Yahalom, but the unit commander trusted me and gave me the opportunity to lead soldiers, from northern Gaza to Rafah."
While her time in Yahalom marked a career high, Major A felt an undeniable pull to continue. "Something in my gut told me not to leave. I couldn’t see myself anywhere else with all the experience I had gained. When the opportunity with Refaim came, I seized it with both hands. Here, I’ve taken on responsibility for managing and executing operations against Hamas, overseeing battle management, resources, and weaponry for the soldiers. Essentially, I’ve become the commander’s right hand on the battlefield."
* Ynet contributed to this article.
