Over the past year, the Operations Directorate has undergone a significant reorganization aimed at enhancing personal security protocols for service members across various ranks, both domestically and internationally.
Expanded Security Mandate
Recently, the responsibilities of this specialized branch have broadened to safeguard IDF personnel in Israel and overseas against a diverse range of threats. This includes protecting active-duty soldiers, prominent officials, major generals, and the Chief of Staff. In an interview with Walla, the head of the security unit discussed the escalating risks and the ongoing intelligence alerts that necessitate a collaborative operational response throughout Israel’s defense apparatus.
The head emphasized their comprehensive responsibility in countering all types of terrorist threats. This became particularly relevant following Operation Roaring Lion in Iran, which spurred Iran’s attempts to settle scores abroad, along with an increase in antisemitic incidents worldwide. Notably, a soldier was extracted from Thailand about a year and a half ago after public calls for harm were made against him, highlighting the urgency of the branch’s mission.
A Pivotal Incident
A watershed moment occurred on November 2, 2022, involving a 19-year-old lone soldier who, during a commercial flight to family in Uzbekistan, faced a medical emergency that forced an unplanned landing in Shiraz, Iran. Immediate communication between the soldier and her family led to swift notification of her commanders and the Mossad, creating a tense situation where her identity put her at risk of detention.
Historical operational protocols were tested as high-ranking officials and the prime minister assessed the unfolding incident. Ultimately, under complete blackout conditions, the mission was successfully executed—highlighting the profound implications of global threats to IDF personnel. Following this incident, the establishment of the Personal Security Branch within the Security Division of the General Staff’s Operations Directorate was set in motion.
Systematic Risk Management
One of the first initiatives of the newly established branch was to conduct an exhaustive risk analysis of international flight paths, similar to the emergency landing in Iran. In collaboration with the National Security Council, detailed guidelines have been formulated regarding no-fly zones and risky layovers, particularly in hostile nations. A specialized app now allows soldiers to input their travel itineraries and receive real-time security alerts and operational guidelines.
Significant challenges persist when it comes to tracking reservists who travel abroad and how these incidents can escalate into larger issues, particularly in light of increasing antisemitism and dual citizenship complications. Soldiers are mandated to disclose any dual citizenship to ensure that proper advisories and instructions can be provided, preventing conflicts that could arise from mandatory draft laws in various countries.
Additionally, the challenges of doxxing and legal confrontations are increasingly relevant. The head of the Personal Security Branch has instituted protocols for determining how and when service members’ identities can be disclosed to the public. Striking a balance between public transparency and personal safety has become a central aspect of their operations.
Assessing Higher Risks
In addition to direct threats, the Personal Security Branch addresses the complexities of online public diplomacy and potential espionage threats. Recent controversies, such as the film NAZA, have raised alarms about the potential for legal actions and media scrutiny aimed at IDF soldiers. The security division is actively awaiting advisories from international law experts to navigate these risks appropriately.
As tensions escalate, the IDF remains vigilant against physical threats stemming from adversaries such as Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas—especially during sensitive periods like the High Holy Days. The evolving landscape of threats requires a comprehensive approach to managing security, where inter-agency collaboration is no longer solely about VIP protection but extends to a holistic evaluation of risks faced by all IDF personnel. This transformation has led to improved capabilities in both intelligence monitoring and operational responsiveness, ensuring that the safety of IDF members—domestically and abroad—remains a top priority.