An Epic Gallery: IDF Soldiers brave extreme cold to protect Israel on Mount Hermon

Battling freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and wind chill that can make the cold unbearable, these brave soldiers—known as Alpinists—carry out their missions in one of the most extreme environments imaginable. Snowdrifts can reach several meters high, and the treacherous conditions only add to the gravity of their work.

The challenges facing the IDF soldiers have intensified in recent days as their mission has expanded to include securing the Syrian border on Mount Hermon. In addition to defending Israel's northern borders, the soldiers are now responsible for the security of the strategic and snowy peak, which has added a new layer of complexity to their operations.

Just last week, the IDF shared a post that captured the essence of their mission, showing soldiers from Battalion 8551 as they braved the freezing cold on the snow-covered mountain. The troops, who are stationed on the Syrian front within the 810th Mountains Regional Battalion’s jurisdiction, sent a message to the people of Israel: "Shabbat Shalom from frozen Syria!" In the heart of the snowstorm, the soldiers recorded a video from Mount Hermon, proudly conveying their dedication to protecting Israel despite the extreme weather.

“Dear people of Israel, Shabbat Shalom, we love you, and we’re protecting you even in this freezing cold in frozen Syria,” the soldiers said. This heartfelt message from Battalion 8551, which is part of the Shomer Brigade and later transferred to the Golan Brigade, shows their resolve. The unit is made up mainly of religious and Haredi reservists, veterans of the Netzah Yehuda Battalion, who volunteered for reserve duty despite being exempt from it.

These soldiers' commitment to their mission exemplifies the courage and resilience of the IDF, even in the most brutal conditions. Operating in freezing temperatures with the weight of national security on their shoulders, they continue to serve and protect the people of Israel, showing unwavering dedication in their duties on Mount Hermon.