IDF increases readiness after canceling leave policy for holidays
- Eyal Zamir canceled the policy of 'shutdowns' during holidays to bolster military readiness.
- The IDF is increasing its alert level and combat forces presence ahead of the Passover holiday.
- These measures aim to ensure safety during the holiday, reflecting lessons learned from past attacks.
In the Israel Defense Forces, preparations have been amplified in all areas ahead of the upcoming Passover holiday, which begins after sundown on April 11, 2025, and lasts until April 19. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir is leading these efforts, stressing the need for heightened alertness to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens during the holiday season. The decision to raise readiness levels follows an evaluation of past incidents, particularly the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023. During this attack, operational capabilities of IDF bases were significantly compromised due to policy 'shutdowns' which involved granting leave to large numbers of active-duty personnel, thereby reducing base staffing levels. The context of maintaining operational readiness stems from a dire lesson learned on October 7, when Hamas and other Palestinian militants launched invasions that targeted sparsely defended bases at a time when military operations were effectively reduced. This situation highlighted critical vulnerabilities within IDF defenses during important religious observances, like Passover and other holidays, where traditionally a smaller number of soldiers are present in barracks. The need to reassess these policies was underscored by the chaotic events that unfolded, including significant breaches of security and a lack of preparedness within military ranks. In November 2023, a report disclosed that Hamas initially planned an assault for Passover but withdrew these intentions following a rise in alert signals from the IDF's Military Intelligence Directorate. This prompted Eyal Zamir to revise the strategy regarding troop deployment and readiness, emphasizing vigilant defense protocols not just for combat sectors, but for all IDF bases across the country throughout the holiday. The military's repositioning is a pivotal response aiming to bolster security measures and ensure that all operational sectors are adequately manned and prepared to counter potential threats as Passover approaches. Through these changes, the IDF aims not only to safeguard its own forces but also to instill a sense of security among the Israeli populace during this significant cultural and religious period. The proactive approach taken by Eyal Zamir and the IDF signifies a crucial shift in military doctrine regarding holiday operational readiness, aiming to prevent a repeat of past mistakes while ensuring a secure environment for the celebrations. Overall, the emphasis on vigilance and preparation is a decisive pivot towards optimizing the defense framework of Israel during critical times.