Prime Minister Netanyahu meets with Artillery Corps and Givati Brigade recruits at the Bakum induction center
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited today (Wednesday, 5 August 2026) the IDF Tel HaShomer induction base (Bakum), and met with recruits to the Artillery Corps and the Givati Brigade.
The Prime Minister met the recruits along the induction chain prior to their donning of the uniforms, and later held a discussion with the recruits and responded to their questions.
Prime Minister Netanyahu [translated from Hebrew]:
"I held a conversation just now with recruits enlisting for combat service at the induction base, a deeply moving one. They come from all parts of the country, religious and secular, north and south, cities and villages: an Israeli mosaic. I told them that the unity among us is much broader than is commonly thought. We come to defend our one homeland. We repel our enemies and we know that our future is a shared future for all of us."
The Prime Minister further told the recruits:
"Tell your fathers and mothers that you are going to have our backing. We are sending you to protect the homeland, and we will also protect you. Go forth and succeed."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited today (Wednesday, 5 August 2026) the IDF Tel HaShomer induction base (Bakum), and met with recruits to the Artillery Corps and the Givati Brigade.
The Prime Minister met the recruits along the induction chain prior to their donning of the uniforms, and later held a discussion with the recruits and responded to their questions.
Prime Minister Netanyahu [translated from Hebrew]:
"I held a conversation just now with recruits enlisting for combat service at the induction base, a deeply moving one. They come from all parts of the country, religious and secular, north and south, cities and villages: an Israeli mosaic. I told them that the unity among us is much broader than is commonly thought. We come to defend our one homeland. We repel our enemies and we know that our future is a shared future for all of us."
The Prime Minister further told the recruits:
"Tell your fathers and mothers that you are going to have our backing. We are sending you to protect the homeland, and we will also protect you. Go forth and succeed."
Israel Ministry of Defense Spokesperson's Statement
Successful Launch Test of the Arrow Weapon System
The Israeli Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) within the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) in the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD), in cooperation with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), have successfully completed today (Wednesday) a planned test of the Arrow Weapon System, as part of the multi-year test program for the development and upgrade of the system. The launch was conducted from a test site in central Israel.
The Arrow Weapon System, including Arrow 2 and Arrow 3, demonstrated unprecedented, groundbreaking capabilities on a global scale in the aerial and missile defense domain, intercepting numerous ballistic threats launched from both Iran and Yemen over the last three years, including ballistic missiles in space, in the exo-atmosphere. Israel's defense establishment continues to develop and upgrade the system at all times against evolving threats expected in the region in the coming years, as part of the Ministry's strategy to preserve Israel's technological superiority by developing operational solutions and preempting the enemy's next surprises.
The successful test represents another significant milestone in Israel's operational ability to defend itself from current and future threats.
The Arrow Weapon System constitutes the top layer of Israel's multi-layered air and missile defense array that also includes the David's Sling, Iron Dome, and Iron Beam Defense Systems. The Arrow Weapon System includes threat detection and classification capabilities via the powerful Green Pine and Super Green Pine radars, a command-and-control system, a fire control system, and interceptors enabling exo-atmospheric interception at extreme altitudes and ranges.
The development and production of the systems is led by the Israel Ministry of Defense through the IMDO within the DDR&D, and executed with the U.S. MDA. These defense systems are operated in the field by the Israeli Air Force's Air Defense Command. IAI is the prime developer of the Arrow Weapon System, through its Systems, Missiles & Space Group and its ELTA Group, which develops the radar detection array. Elbit Systems develops the fire control system. Tomer, a government-owned defense company, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and the U.S. STARK Aerospace company are key subcontractors in the development of the Arrow interceptors.
The test was conducted with the participation of senior officials and representatives from the U.S. MDA, which is a partner in the development and production of the Arrow Weapon System.
Defense Minister, Israel Katz:
"Today's Arrow system test is further proof of the strength of Israel's defense establishment, its defense industries, and its technological capabilities. The Arrow system has proven itself in war, successfully intercepting numerous threats from Iran and other arenas and protecting Israel's citizens. We're constantly upgrading its capabilities, and Israel stays ready at all times, for both current and future threats. We will continue investing in the development of the world's most advanced defense systems, while simultaneously strengthening our offensive capabilities, to ensure Israel's security superiority and the safety of its citizens."
IMOD Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram:
"This groundbreaking Arrow test puts into practice the core pillars of the Israel Ministry of Defense's strategy: staying ahead technologically by developing 'the next surprises,' and strengthening Israel's weapons independence. Even now, following our success in the Iran campaign, we remain in emergency mode, dramatically accelerating production and upgrading the system's capabilities. Thanks to decisions made over the past year, Israel's interceptor stockpile keeps growing, backed by new and constantly evolving capabilities."
Successful Launch Test of the Arrow Weapon System
The Israeli Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) within the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) in the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD), in cooperation with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), have successfully completed today (Wednesday) a planned test of the Arrow Weapon System, as part of the multi-year test program for the development and upgrade of the system. The launch was conducted from a test site in central Israel.
The Arrow Weapon System, including Arrow 2 and Arrow 3, demonstrated unprecedented, groundbreaking capabilities on a global scale in the aerial and missile defense domain, intercepting numerous ballistic threats launched from both Iran and Yemen over the last three years, including ballistic missiles in space, in the exo-atmosphere. Israel's defense establishment continues to develop and upgrade the system at all times against evolving threats expected in the region in the coming years, as part of the Ministry's strategy to preserve Israel's technological superiority by developing operational solutions and preempting the enemy's next surprises.
The successful test represents another significant milestone in Israel's operational ability to defend itself from current and future threats.
The Arrow Weapon System constitutes the top layer of Israel's multi-layered air and missile defense array that also includes the David's Sling, Iron Dome, and Iron Beam Defense Systems. The Arrow Weapon System includes threat detection and classification capabilities via the powerful Green Pine and Super Green Pine radars, a command-and-control system, a fire control system, and interceptors enabling exo-atmospheric interception at extreme altitudes and ranges.
The development and production of the systems is led by the Israel Ministry of Defense through the IMDO within the DDR&D, and executed with the U.S. MDA. These defense systems are operated in the field by the Israeli Air Force's Air Defense Command. IAI is the prime developer of the Arrow Weapon System, through its Systems, Missiles & Space Group and its ELTA Group, which develops the radar detection array. Elbit Systems develops the fire control system. Tomer, a government-owned defense company, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and the U.S. STARK Aerospace company are key subcontractors in the development of the Arrow interceptors.
The test was conducted with the participation of senior officials and representatives from the U.S. MDA, which is a partner in the development and production of the Arrow Weapon System.
Defense Minister, Israel Katz:
"Today's Arrow system test is further proof of the strength of Israel's defense establishment, its defense industries, and its technological capabilities. The Arrow system has proven itself in war, successfully intercepting numerous threats from Iran and other arenas and protecting Israel's citizens. We're constantly upgrading its capabilities, and Israel stays ready at all times, for both current and future threats. We will continue investing in the development of the world's most advanced defense systems, while simultaneously strengthening our offensive capabilities, to ensure Israel's security superiority and the safety of its citizens."
IMOD Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram:
"This groundbreaking Arrow test puts into practice the core pillars of the Israel Ministry of Defense's strategy: staying ahead technologically by developing 'the next surprises,' and strengthening Israel's weapons independence. Even now, following our success in the Iran campaign, we remain in emergency mode, dramatically accelerating production and upgrading the system's capabilities. Thanks to decisions made over the past year, Israel's interceptor stockpile keeps growing, backed by new and constantly evolving capabilities."
IAI Chairman of the Board, Boaz Levy:
"The Arrow system plays a direct, decisive role in how Israel confronts the threats from Iran and its proxies, and it's yet another proof point of the strategic and technological edge IAI delivers for the country. Our deep, long-standing partnership with the Israeli and American defense establishments keeps driving breakthroughs and unique technologies that draw real interest from our allies around the world, while directly strengthening Israel's security and economy. As aerial threats grow more complex and varied, IAI keeps pushing harder on advanced technological solutions that protect nations, civilians, and strategic assets."
Head of the DDR&D, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold:
"This successful and significant test in the development of the Arrow system marks an exceptionally important step in the continued fortification of Israel's aerial defenses. These new developments draw on the lessons of the war on one hand, and forward-looking vision on the other, to address evolving threats and establish Israel's relative advantage over its enemies. I want to express my appreciation to all the engineers and personnel involved within the DDR&D, the IDF, the MDA, and the defense industries."
IAI President and CEO Guy Bar Lev:
"The Arrow system, built by IAI in close partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense, the U.S. MDA, and the Israeli Air Force, once again exemplifies that Israel holds the most advanced ballistic missile defense technology in the world. This test put the system up against future threats and generated data that our engineers will use to build the next generation of aerial defense. IAI's systems are at the core of every layer of Israel's defense, identifying, classifying, and tracking every threat in the airspace. All of this is achieved thanks to the people of IAI, who work around the clock with professionalism and a true sense of mission to protect Israel."
IMDO Director, Moshe Patel:
"The War of Redemption proved the importance of the multi-layered aerial defense array that the Israel Ministry of Defense has developed and built over several decades. In this test, we completed an important and significant stage in the development of the Arrow Weapon System. In these new developments, we incorporated advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, the application of combat lessons, and a move into automated manufacturing. This test marks a significant step toward the continued equipping of the IDF with the system. The IMDO continues to innovate and ensure Israel's security against both today's and tomorrow's threats."
All the best,
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | [email protected]
"The Arrow system plays a direct, decisive role in how Israel confronts the threats from Iran and its proxies, and it's yet another proof point of the strategic and technological edge IAI delivers for the country. Our deep, long-standing partnership with the Israeli and American defense establishments keeps driving breakthroughs and unique technologies that draw real interest from our allies around the world, while directly strengthening Israel's security and economy. As aerial threats grow more complex and varied, IAI keeps pushing harder on advanced technological solutions that protect nations, civilians, and strategic assets."
Head of the DDR&D, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold:
"This successful and significant test in the development of the Arrow system marks an exceptionally important step in the continued fortification of Israel's aerial defenses. These new developments draw on the lessons of the war on one hand, and forward-looking vision on the other, to address evolving threats and establish Israel's relative advantage over its enemies. I want to express my appreciation to all the engineers and personnel involved within the DDR&D, the IDF, the MDA, and the defense industries."
IAI President and CEO Guy Bar Lev:
"The Arrow system, built by IAI in close partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense, the U.S. MDA, and the Israeli Air Force, once again exemplifies that Israel holds the most advanced ballistic missile defense technology in the world. This test put the system up against future threats and generated data that our engineers will use to build the next generation of aerial defense. IAI's systems are at the core of every layer of Israel's defense, identifying, classifying, and tracking every threat in the airspace. All of this is achieved thanks to the people of IAI, who work around the clock with professionalism and a true sense of mission to protect Israel."
IMDO Director, Moshe Patel:
"The War of Redemption proved the importance of the multi-layered aerial defense array that the Israel Ministry of Defense has developed and built over several decades. In this test, we completed an important and significant stage in the development of the Arrow Weapon System. In these new developments, we incorporated advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, the application of combat lessons, and a move into automated manufacturing. This test marks a significant step toward the continued equipping of the IDF with the system. The IMDO continues to innovate and ensure Israel's security against both today's and tomorrow's threats."
All the best,
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | [email protected]
Remarks by Prime Minister Netanyahu at the reinterment ceremony for the remains of Shimon and Rivka Herzl, grandfather and grandmother of Binyamin Ze'ev Herzl
[translated from Hebrew]
"Distinguished President of the State, Isaac Herzog,
Speaker of the Knesset, MK Amir Ohana,
Deputy Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Noam Solberg,
Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, Yaakov Hagoel,
Cabinet Ministers, members of the Knesset,
Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif,
Commissioner-General of the Israeli Police, Commissioner Daniel Levy.
Ambassador of Serbia to Israel, I kindly request that you convey our greetings and gratitude to the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, and to your foreign minister who speaks Hebrew; he can translate.
We send our embrace to our heroic fighters, to the families of the fallen, and to our wounded, in body and soul, who are heroes as well.
We know that we are on a long journey. The long journey of the Herzl family from foreign soil to the soil of Zion ends here today, on Mount Herzl. All of us hold respect and admiration for Binyamin Ze'ev Herzl for the gigantic Zionist enterprise that stands proudly.
But now our gaze focuses on the foundations of the building: Judaism – as the basis for Zionism. The Torah and the entire Tanakh – as the cornerstone of identity. The chain of generations – as the anchor of values and heritage.
The home of Herzl's grandfather and grandmother provided the roots that grew a trunk, branches, and fruit. And this was not a simple process, because the 19th century greatly challenged traditional Judaism in its encounter with modernity. And the Herzl family as well was influenced by the tension between tradition and enlightenment.
And there was an additional very powerful factor that left its mark on that century, and on Rabbi Alkalai, precisely in those years, in the mid-19th century. On Alkalai, and on Lilienblum, and on Moses Hess, and on all these proto-Zionists. And this component was the rise of nationalism.
I wish to tell you that at the entrance to the Prime Minister's Office, a figure of Herzl is displayed. And when world leaders arrive for diplomatic meetings in my office, I make a point of lingering with them for a few moments near this figure of Herzl. And I explain to them, in the only way I can explain it to them, that Herzl is the modern Moses.
Because Herzl created the conditions that brought us to the Promised Land. He did so with genius, with determination, with dignity. He did so also in a very practical manner, with great pragmatism. The combination of vision and practicality characterized Herzl; he was essentially the first Jewish statesman in the modern era who acted on behalf of the Jews. Jewish statesmen existed, but they did not act for the sake of the Jews. He acted for the Jews.
I further say to my interlocutors that for us Herzl is a leader on the scale of 'nation architects'. That is what I call them, revered 'nation architects' around the world: George Washington in the United States, Simon Bolivar in Latin America, Mazzini and Garibaldi in Italy.
[translated from Hebrew]
"Distinguished President of the State, Isaac Herzog,
Speaker of the Knesset, MK Amir Ohana,
Deputy Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Noam Solberg,
Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, Yaakov Hagoel,
Cabinet Ministers, members of the Knesset,
Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif,
Commissioner-General of the Israeli Police, Commissioner Daniel Levy.
Ambassador of Serbia to Israel, I kindly request that you convey our greetings and gratitude to the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, and to your foreign minister who speaks Hebrew; he can translate.
We send our embrace to our heroic fighters, to the families of the fallen, and to our wounded, in body and soul, who are heroes as well.
We know that we are on a long journey. The long journey of the Herzl family from foreign soil to the soil of Zion ends here today, on Mount Herzl. All of us hold respect and admiration for Binyamin Ze'ev Herzl for the gigantic Zionist enterprise that stands proudly.
But now our gaze focuses on the foundations of the building: Judaism – as the basis for Zionism. The Torah and the entire Tanakh – as the cornerstone of identity. The chain of generations – as the anchor of values and heritage.
The home of Herzl's grandfather and grandmother provided the roots that grew a trunk, branches, and fruit. And this was not a simple process, because the 19th century greatly challenged traditional Judaism in its encounter with modernity. And the Herzl family as well was influenced by the tension between tradition and enlightenment.
And there was an additional very powerful factor that left its mark on that century, and on Rabbi Alkalai, precisely in those years, in the mid-19th century. On Alkalai, and on Lilienblum, and on Moses Hess, and on all these proto-Zionists. And this component was the rise of nationalism.
I wish to tell you that at the entrance to the Prime Minister's Office, a figure of Herzl is displayed. And when world leaders arrive for diplomatic meetings in my office, I make a point of lingering with them for a few moments near this figure of Herzl. And I explain to them, in the only way I can explain it to them, that Herzl is the modern Moses.
Because Herzl created the conditions that brought us to the Promised Land. He did so with genius, with determination, with dignity. He did so also in a very practical manner, with great pragmatism. The combination of vision and practicality characterized Herzl; he was essentially the first Jewish statesman in the modern era who acted on behalf of the Jews. Jewish statesmen existed, but they did not act for the sake of the Jews. He acted for the Jews.
I further say to my interlocutors that for us Herzl is a leader on the scale of 'nation architects'. That is what I call them, revered 'nation architects' around the world: George Washington in the United States, Simon Bolivar in Latin America, Mazzini and Garibaldi in Italy.
This is Herzl's uniqueness, from our perspective: because the prayers that were traditionally recited by his grandfather Shimon Leib and his grandmother Rivka in the Diaspora – 'And may our eyes behold Your return to Zion in mercy' – these prayers and dreams were transformed by their grandson into a practical action plan that changed the course of Jewish history.
Herzl stood proudly before rulers who decide fates, and he tried to reach a partnership of interests with them. He did not always succeed; he tried with the Kaiser, he tried with the Turkish Sultan, and he tried with world leaders and others.
He also sought to save us from the rising wave of antisemitism, because he sensed the magnitude of the danger approaching us. And above all, above everything, Herzl instilled in us the belief that we must take our destiny into our own hands: with boldness, with determination, with courage. That was true then, and it is no less true today.
Throughout the War of Redemption, I emphasize that the State of Israel represents an unbreakable will. The fateful decisions we made in the face of all pressures, all the pressures from without and within, and the fighting spirit of our heroic soldiers and commanders – have granted us tremendous achievements on the fronts of the campaign.
Herzl spoke of the descendants of the Maccabees who would come to life. And indeed, the spirit of the Maccabees resonates within the young generation – the generation of victory – who stand ready to strike down those who seek our harm, and to ensure the security of the homeland. He believed in the ability of our people to establish a firm foothold in the land of our ancestors, while also bringing prosperity to the entire region.
Owing to our Jewish roots, owing to the national resilience we have developed in countless crises, owing to our belief in the sanctity of life, in freedom, in progress, in innovation – we incessantly stand the trials of existence.
But we are now on Mount Herzl, we are near the grave of Herzl, near the graves of Herzl's family members. And Herzl understood that there is another condition for existence: you must identify the danger in time, but you must also unite forces in time. Unite forces on matters that require unity.
And he was not naive; he understood that there are arguments among people, certainly in a democracy, for that is its essence – the resolution of disagreements and conflicts, through debate or through compromise.
Today I was at the IDF induction center, and I met soldiers who are enlisting, coming from all parts of the country, from the city, from the village, religious, secular – everyone, Jews and non-Jews. And I saw how they are united in the mission. Not because they do not have different opinions on many things, but regarding the main issues, they understand that our state, the state of the Jews that grants equality and rights to non-Jews – the only ones in the region who do this – that the Jewish state is under attack, that we are fighting here for the nation-state of the Jewish people.
And we understood many things after October 7. Whoever did not understand, we have united on many issues. We will not establish here a Palestinian terror state that we know is aimed at destroying the Jewish nation-state. We understand that they want to destroy us because we promote values of progress and democracy and freedom and liberty, which are hated by our barbarian mortal foes.
Herzl listened and understood what the antisemites –like the Vienna mayor elected at the time – he understood what they were planning. He did not cover his ears, and we do not cover our ears either.
We heard today the commander of the IRGC, Vahidi, explicitly declaring Iran's intention to keep developing nuclear weapons, 'to continue' as he put it. Well, as Prime Minister of Israel, I too am determined to continue. To continue preventing Iran from possessing nuclear weapons.
Herzl stood proudly before rulers who decide fates, and he tried to reach a partnership of interests with them. He did not always succeed; he tried with the Kaiser, he tried with the Turkish Sultan, and he tried with world leaders and others.
He also sought to save us from the rising wave of antisemitism, because he sensed the magnitude of the danger approaching us. And above all, above everything, Herzl instilled in us the belief that we must take our destiny into our own hands: with boldness, with determination, with courage. That was true then, and it is no less true today.
Throughout the War of Redemption, I emphasize that the State of Israel represents an unbreakable will. The fateful decisions we made in the face of all pressures, all the pressures from without and within, and the fighting spirit of our heroic soldiers and commanders – have granted us tremendous achievements on the fronts of the campaign.
Herzl spoke of the descendants of the Maccabees who would come to life. And indeed, the spirit of the Maccabees resonates within the young generation – the generation of victory – who stand ready to strike down those who seek our harm, and to ensure the security of the homeland. He believed in the ability of our people to establish a firm foothold in the land of our ancestors, while also bringing prosperity to the entire region.
Owing to our Jewish roots, owing to the national resilience we have developed in countless crises, owing to our belief in the sanctity of life, in freedom, in progress, in innovation – we incessantly stand the trials of existence.
But we are now on Mount Herzl, we are near the grave of Herzl, near the graves of Herzl's family members. And Herzl understood that there is another condition for existence: you must identify the danger in time, but you must also unite forces in time. Unite forces on matters that require unity.
And he was not naive; he understood that there are arguments among people, certainly in a democracy, for that is its essence – the resolution of disagreements and conflicts, through debate or through compromise.
Today I was at the IDF induction center, and I met soldiers who are enlisting, coming from all parts of the country, from the city, from the village, religious, secular – everyone, Jews and non-Jews. And I saw how they are united in the mission. Not because they do not have different opinions on many things, but regarding the main issues, they understand that our state, the state of the Jews that grants equality and rights to non-Jews – the only ones in the region who do this – that the Jewish state is under attack, that we are fighting here for the nation-state of the Jewish people.
And we understood many things after October 7. Whoever did not understand, we have united on many issues. We will not establish here a Palestinian terror state that we know is aimed at destroying the Jewish nation-state. We understand that they want to destroy us because we promote values of progress and democracy and freedom and liberty, which are hated by our barbarian mortal foes.
Herzl listened and understood what the antisemites –like the Vienna mayor elected at the time – he understood what they were planning. He did not cover his ears, and we do not cover our ears either.
We heard today the commander of the IRGC, Vahidi, explicitly declaring Iran's intention to keep developing nuclear weapons, 'to continue' as he put it. Well, as Prime Minister of Israel, I too am determined to continue. To continue preventing Iran from possessing nuclear weapons.
And I wish to clarify: President Trump is the greatest of our friends, the greatest of the friends we have had in the White House. And the United States is our great ally, and everyone understands also that we deeply appreciate the joint efforts, ours and those of the United States, against Iran's nuclear ambitions.
I wish to clarify also that Israel's existence is not open to negotiation. With an agreement or without an agreement, I am determined, we are all determined, to do everything necessary to ensure our security and our future.
Israel is a strong nation-state, proud of its identity, confident in the righteousness of its path. Other struggles await us as well: a struggle against the rising antisemitic wave in our days, exactly like in the days of Herzl, the wave that works to delegitimize the State of Israel and Israel's fighters. IDF soldiers are the most heroic soldiers, the most moral, and the most vilified on the face of the earth. And these slanders that come from the outside – they must not come from the inside as well.
But I want to tell you that there is also another side to the coin; many leaders in the world say to me: 'Prime Minister, we appreciate your country – we even admire your country – and we need you. Israel is our model in the struggle against radical Islam which threatens the entire civilized world'.
I hear this from one leader, from a second, third, fourth one. I hear it in the region. I hear it also from Europe and Latin America and across all continents.
Distinguished guests, I wish to tell you that I think of Herzl with great frequency. I think of how he, a 36-year-old young man, changed our history in 8 years – how did he do it? Because he was calibrated, he was committed to this immense calling.
The love of Zion passed from generation to generation in the Herzl family, and thanks to it, the Zionist fervor was instilled in the soul of the nation. And I know, Mr. President, that this is the case in your family – and so too in my family. My late grandfather, Rabbi Natan Mileikowsky-Netanyahu, of blessed memory, committed himself to the success of Zionism with the Herzlian compass in his hand. This does not mean that my grandfather agreed with everything Herzl said or did.
When Herzl presented the 'Uganda Plan' for the temporary settlement of Jews in the heart of Africa, my grandfather rejected it outright. And yet, he served as a delegate at the World Zionist Congress in the Hague in 1907 – three years after Herzl's passing. He sanctified Herzl's legacy, and it was passed from my grandfather to my father, the historian Prof. Benzion Netanyahu, of blessed memory, who wrote: 'If we do not want Herzl's enterprise to perish in chaos and his efforts to be in vain, if our admiration for Herzl is sincere – let us cleave to his teaching, let us carry its imperatives upon our raised banner, and let us protect ourselves with the spirit he sought to outfit us with!"
This sublime spirit is folded within the caskets of Shimon-Leib and Rivka Herzl, of blessed memory, who were brought from Serbia to our eternal capital, Jerusalem. May the soil of the homeland be sweet to them, for the vision has arisen and become reality. Zionism has won. The grandson, Binyamin Ze'ev Herzl, has won.
And with God's help and the heroism of our fighters – we are winning. May the memory of the Herzl family be blessed forever."
Attached photo credits: Kobi Gideon (GPO)
I wish to clarify also that Israel's existence is not open to negotiation. With an agreement or without an agreement, I am determined, we are all determined, to do everything necessary to ensure our security and our future.
Israel is a strong nation-state, proud of its identity, confident in the righteousness of its path. Other struggles await us as well: a struggle against the rising antisemitic wave in our days, exactly like in the days of Herzl, the wave that works to delegitimize the State of Israel and Israel's fighters. IDF soldiers are the most heroic soldiers, the most moral, and the most vilified on the face of the earth. And these slanders that come from the outside – they must not come from the inside as well.
But I want to tell you that there is also another side to the coin; many leaders in the world say to me: 'Prime Minister, we appreciate your country – we even admire your country – and we need you. Israel is our model in the struggle against radical Islam which threatens the entire civilized world'.
I hear this from one leader, from a second, third, fourth one. I hear it in the region. I hear it also from Europe and Latin America and across all continents.
Distinguished guests, I wish to tell you that I think of Herzl with great frequency. I think of how he, a 36-year-old young man, changed our history in 8 years – how did he do it? Because he was calibrated, he was committed to this immense calling.
The love of Zion passed from generation to generation in the Herzl family, and thanks to it, the Zionist fervor was instilled in the soul of the nation. And I know, Mr. President, that this is the case in your family – and so too in my family. My late grandfather, Rabbi Natan Mileikowsky-Netanyahu, of blessed memory, committed himself to the success of Zionism with the Herzlian compass in his hand. This does not mean that my grandfather agreed with everything Herzl said or did.
When Herzl presented the 'Uganda Plan' for the temporary settlement of Jews in the heart of Africa, my grandfather rejected it outright. And yet, he served as a delegate at the World Zionist Congress in the Hague in 1907 – three years after Herzl's passing. He sanctified Herzl's legacy, and it was passed from my grandfather to my father, the historian Prof. Benzion Netanyahu, of blessed memory, who wrote: 'If we do not want Herzl's enterprise to perish in chaos and his efforts to be in vain, if our admiration for Herzl is sincere – let us cleave to his teaching, let us carry its imperatives upon our raised banner, and let us protect ourselves with the spirit he sought to outfit us with!"
This sublime spirit is folded within the caskets of Shimon-Leib and Rivka Herzl, of blessed memory, who were brought from Serbia to our eternal capital, Jerusalem. May the soil of the homeland be sweet to them, for the vision has arisen and become reality. Zionism has won. The grandson, Binyamin Ze'ev Herzl, has won.
And with God's help and the heroism of our fighters – we are winning. May the memory of the Herzl family be blessed forever."
Attached photo credits: Kobi Gideon (GPO)
(Communicated by the President’s Spokesperson)
Wednesday, 5 August 2026 / 22 Menachem Av 5786
President Herzog Addresses State Ceremony for the Burial of Theodor Herzl’s Grandparents in Jerusalem
President Herzog: “After each military victory and achievement, diplomacy must follow”
On August 5, 2026, President Isaac Herzog addressed the state ceremony for the burial of the remains of Shimon and Rivka Herzl, the grandparents of Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism, on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. The remains of Shimon and Rivka Herzl were recently exhumed from a Jewish cemetery in Belgrade, Serbia, and brought to Israel for burial beside their grandson.
President Isaac Herzog:
“As we stand here after nearly three years of war on multiple fronts, it is Herzl the statesman who we should look to. After each military victory and achievement, diplomacy and statesmanship must follow. We must ensure Israel’s security under all circumstances, but there is no complete victory without the diplomacy that follows it.
“In his will, Theodor Herzl wrote that he wished for his remains and those of his immediate family to be brought for burial in the Jewish state once it was established. Today, we complete the fulfillment of that wish. But his true, greater will – building the Jewish state continues still, and a great and weighty task remains ours to complete.”
Link for Video of President Herzog’s Address at the Ceremony (in Hebrew): https://mab.to/t/0q9lnYze78R/eu2
Video credit: Dotan Guetta (GPO) / Sound credit: Avner Dvir (GPO)
Attached photo credits: Haim Zach (GPO)
Benjamin Lee, [email protected], 050-6169572
Wednesday, 5 August 2026 / 22 Menachem Av 5786
President Herzog Addresses State Ceremony for the Burial of Theodor Herzl’s Grandparents in Jerusalem
President Herzog: “After each military victory and achievement, diplomacy must follow”
On August 5, 2026, President Isaac Herzog addressed the state ceremony for the burial of the remains of Shimon and Rivka Herzl, the grandparents of Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism, on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. The remains of Shimon and Rivka Herzl were recently exhumed from a Jewish cemetery in Belgrade, Serbia, and brought to Israel for burial beside their grandson.
President Isaac Herzog:
“As we stand here after nearly three years of war on multiple fronts, it is Herzl the statesman who we should look to. After each military victory and achievement, diplomacy and statesmanship must follow. We must ensure Israel’s security under all circumstances, but there is no complete victory without the diplomacy that follows it.
“In his will, Theodor Herzl wrote that he wished for his remains and those of his immediate family to be brought for burial in the Jewish state once it was established. Today, we complete the fulfillment of that wish. But his true, greater will – building the Jewish state continues still, and a great and weighty task remains ours to complete.”
Link for Video of President Herzog’s Address at the Ceremony (in Hebrew): https://mab.to/t/0q9lnYze78R/eu2
Video credit: Dotan Guetta (GPO) / Sound credit: Avner Dvir (GPO)
Attached photo credits: Haim Zach (GPO)
Benjamin Lee, [email protected], 050-6169572
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Fallen Soldiers Maj. (Res.) Harel Birenstock and Master-Sgt. (Res.) Tamir Vaknin
Prime Minister Benjamin, today (Thursday, 6 August 2026) [translated from Hebrew]:
“Together with all citizens of Israel, my wife and I mourn the fall of Maj. (Res.) Harel Birenstock and Master Sgt. (Res.) Tamir Vaknin, of blessed memory, who fell in battle in southern Lebanon.
Harel and Tamir were among our finest sons, courageous fighters who reported for reserve duty and fought heroically to defend the residents of the north and the State of Israel.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost what is most precious to them, and we wish a complete recovery to our fighters who were wounded in that same incident.
May the memory of our heroes be blessed and enshrined in the heart of the nation.”
Prime Minister Benjamin, today (Thursday, 6 August 2026) [translated from Hebrew]:
“Together with all citizens of Israel, my wife and I mourn the fall of Maj. (Res.) Harel Birenstock and Master Sgt. (Res.) Tamir Vaknin, of blessed memory, who fell in battle in southern Lebanon.
Harel and Tamir were among our finest sons, courageous fighters who reported for reserve duty and fought heroically to defend the residents of the north and the State of Israel.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost what is most precious to them, and we wish a complete recovery to our fighters who were wounded in that same incident.
May the memory of our heroes be blessed and enshrined in the heart of the nation.”
Israel Ministry of Defense Spokesperson's Statement:
Israel MOD Director General Meets Leading Defense-Tech and Startup CEOs on Strategy: Ministry Orders Reached Approximately $330 Million - Double the Same Period Last Year
Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram held a brainstorming session with the CEOs of roughly 20 leading defense-tech and startup companies, focused on the Ministry's strategy to advance Israel's munitions independence, strengthen its qualitative and technological-defense edge, and deepen cooperation with the defense establishment.
The meeting was attended by the Head of the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, the Head of the Budget Department and Economic Advisor to the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Brig. Gen. Nir Weingold; the Deputy Director General and Head of the Planning Department, Racheli Chen; the Deputy Director General and Head of the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD), Ze’ev Landau; and additional senior officials. Companies represented at the forum included Xtend, SmartShooter, Kela, Ondas, Esh-Tech, and others.
The Director-General and senior ministry officials presented the CEOs with the IMOD's strategy, centered on: strengthening Israel's munitions independence; preserving and expanding its qualitative edge through the development of "the next surprises"; increasing defense exports; and broadening the strategic partnership with the United States and other countries. The meeting enabled the companies to raise the key challenges facing defense startups, allowed the Ministry to deepen its support for them, and advanced Israel’s unique defense-tech ecosystem, widely regarded as one of the world's leading.
According to figures presented by the Head of the DDR&D, orders to defense startups in the first half of 2026 totaled approximately $330 million (approximately NIS 1 billion) - double the amount in the same period last year. The number of defense-tech companies operating under the Ministry's oversight since the start of the war has risen to 322, driven by growing demand at home and abroad and by a series of measures taken by the Ministry, led by the DDR&D together with the Budget Department and other departments, to strengthen the defense-tech and defense-startup ecosystem in Israel.
IMOD Director-General, Maj.-Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: “One of our strategic goals is munitions independence in critical components - we cannot allow our operational capability to depend on a supply chain we do not control. This is a process that takes time, but it begins with the decisions we make every day, and you, the startups, are part of that solution. We are not choosing between startups and the major manufacturers - we need both: we want healthy competition that drives innovation and competitive pricing, and we want partnerships that allow small, agile capabilities to integrate into large, proven systems. This is a balance we expect every player in the industry to respect, in accordance with our code of ethics.
“We will encourage and assist, to the best of our ability, in strengthening every component of the ecosystem: entrepreneurs, venture capital investors, government funding, long-term contracts that provide certainty, and exports that open additional markets. Together, these form the engine that can drive the national growth of Israel's defense-tech industry - not only as a defense solution, but as a genuine economic driver. Defense-tech is part of the State of Israel's unique advantage, built on combat-proven capabilities that Israeli talent has successfully demonstrated on the battlefield time and again.”
Israel MOD Director General Meets Leading Defense-Tech and Startup CEOs on Strategy: Ministry Orders Reached Approximately $330 Million - Double the Same Period Last Year
Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram held a brainstorming session with the CEOs of roughly 20 leading defense-tech and startup companies, focused on the Ministry's strategy to advance Israel's munitions independence, strengthen its qualitative and technological-defense edge, and deepen cooperation with the defense establishment.
The meeting was attended by the Head of the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, the Head of the Budget Department and Economic Advisor to the IDF Chief of the General Staff, Brig. Gen. Nir Weingold; the Deputy Director General and Head of the Planning Department, Racheli Chen; the Deputy Director General and Head of the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD), Ze’ev Landau; and additional senior officials. Companies represented at the forum included Xtend, SmartShooter, Kela, Ondas, Esh-Tech, and others.
The Director-General and senior ministry officials presented the CEOs with the IMOD's strategy, centered on: strengthening Israel's munitions independence; preserving and expanding its qualitative edge through the development of "the next surprises"; increasing defense exports; and broadening the strategic partnership with the United States and other countries. The meeting enabled the companies to raise the key challenges facing defense startups, allowed the Ministry to deepen its support for them, and advanced Israel’s unique defense-tech ecosystem, widely regarded as one of the world's leading.
According to figures presented by the Head of the DDR&D, orders to defense startups in the first half of 2026 totaled approximately $330 million (approximately NIS 1 billion) - double the amount in the same period last year. The number of defense-tech companies operating under the Ministry's oversight since the start of the war has risen to 322, driven by growing demand at home and abroad and by a series of measures taken by the Ministry, led by the DDR&D together with the Budget Department and other departments, to strengthen the defense-tech and defense-startup ecosystem in Israel.
IMOD Director-General, Maj.-Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: “One of our strategic goals is munitions independence in critical components - we cannot allow our operational capability to depend on a supply chain we do not control. This is a process that takes time, but it begins with the decisions we make every day, and you, the startups, are part of that solution. We are not choosing between startups and the major manufacturers - we need both: we want healthy competition that drives innovation and competitive pricing, and we want partnerships that allow small, agile capabilities to integrate into large, proven systems. This is a balance we expect every player in the industry to respect, in accordance with our code of ethics.
“We will encourage and assist, to the best of our ability, in strengthening every component of the ecosystem: entrepreneurs, venture capital investors, government funding, long-term contracts that provide certainty, and exports that open additional markets. Together, these form the engine that can drive the national growth of Israel's defense-tech industry - not only as a defense solution, but as a genuine economic driver. Defense-tech is part of the State of Israel's unique advantage, built on combat-proven capabilities that Israeli talent has successfully demonstrated on the battlefield time and again.”
Attached for your use are photos from the meeting. Companies pictured: Xtend, SpectralX, SpearUAV, Intact, Dream, Ottopia, Skana, Airis, Esh-Tech, OZ, Kela, ShiftersAI, Next Dim, SmartShooter, Ondas, Classiq, Heaven Drones.
Photo credit: Israel Ministry of Defense
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | [email protected]
Photo credit: Israel Ministry of Defense
Media and Public Affairs Bureau
Israel Ministry of Defense
For any media-related queries, please contact Nina Zaydenberg, IMOD Spokesperson to International Media: 0544622513 | 0506291093 | [email protected]
Remarks by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Start of the Government Meeting: "Israel does not accept the 15-point document. The IDF will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed, and it will continue to thwart threats against our forces and citizens."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Sunday, 9 August 2026), at the start of the Government meeting [translated from Hebrew]:
“You have surely noticed an interesting point: Iran attacks all the countries in the region, and even outside the region, but there is one country it does not attack – the State of Israel. It has not attacked thus far; it might attack, but why have long weeks passed and it has not attacked us? Because it knows the massive blow we will inflict upon it if it does so.
I am saying this because lately, over the past two days, we have been flooded with a wave of rumors about Israeli weakness and Israeli withdrawals on all fronts. The most amusing thing is that these attacks come from people who preached withdrawing from the entire Gaza Strip, not entering Lebanon at all, and not striking Iran. Therefore, I ask to go over the fronts with you briefly, one by one.
First of all, Iran. I greatly appreciate President Trump. He is the greatest of our friends in the White House. I greatly appreciate the historical partnership with the US against Iran's attempts to acquire nuclear weapons. And I wish to emphasize once again: With or without an agreement, as long as I am Prime Minister, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. Because the existence of our precious country, the country of all of us, the existence of Israel, is not up for negotiation.
Regarding Lebanon: In Lebanon, too, we hear all sorts of rumors. I wish to clarify: In recent days, Israel has acted with force in Lebanon, eliminating terrorists, including on the Ali Taher ridge. I cannot elaborate on this. We are in the midst of a very important operation. We are working prudently and wisely—with both determination and wisdom, alongside the Israel Defense Forces—and eliminating threats.
As for the Gaza Strip: First and foremost, I wish to clarify the main point: As long as I am Prime Minister, a Palestinian state will not be established, neither in Gaza nor in Judea and Samaria. Neither 'Fatahstan' nor 'Hamastan'.
Regarding specific matters surfacing in the news lately, I wish to be precise here: Israel does not accept the 15-point document.
I have heard people saying: 'You didn't say it.' So here I am saying it again: Israel does not accept the 15-point document. The IDF will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is disarmed. And when I say the disarming of Hamas, it means heavy weaponry, lighter weaponry, all weaponry. And we are talking about genuine disarmament, not fictitious disarmament. Right now, we are talking with the Americans about this issue. They have ideas, some of which are acceptable to us and some of which are unacceptable, and we know how to stand firm against these things. We have proven this in the past and we are proving it today as well. Furthermore, the IDF will continue to thwart threats against our forces and our citizens.
The existence of Israel and the security of all Israeli citizens are not up for negotiation. We stand firm on these interests. We do not do this in advertising agencies; we actually do it on the ground. We proved this all over and over – when we entered Rafah and the Philadelphi Corridor, when we entered Lebanon and eliminated Nasrallah and the rocket stockpile there, and when we struck Iran twice. Unlike all those who lecture us, we do what needs to be done for Israel's security, and we can and know how to stand our ground, even against our best friends when necessary."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Sunday, 9 August 2026), at the start of the Government meeting [translated from Hebrew]:
“You have surely noticed an interesting point: Iran attacks all the countries in the region, and even outside the region, but there is one country it does not attack – the State of Israel. It has not attacked thus far; it might attack, but why have long weeks passed and it has not attacked us? Because it knows the massive blow we will inflict upon it if it does so.
I am saying this because lately, over the past two days, we have been flooded with a wave of rumors about Israeli weakness and Israeli withdrawals on all fronts. The most amusing thing is that these attacks come from people who preached withdrawing from the entire Gaza Strip, not entering Lebanon at all, and not striking Iran. Therefore, I ask to go over the fronts with you briefly, one by one.
First of all, Iran. I greatly appreciate President Trump. He is the greatest of our friends in the White House. I greatly appreciate the historical partnership with the US against Iran's attempts to acquire nuclear weapons. And I wish to emphasize once again: With or without an agreement, as long as I am Prime Minister, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. Because the existence of our precious country, the country of all of us, the existence of Israel, is not up for negotiation.
Regarding Lebanon: In Lebanon, too, we hear all sorts of rumors. I wish to clarify: In recent days, Israel has acted with force in Lebanon, eliminating terrorists, including on the Ali Taher ridge. I cannot elaborate on this. We are in the midst of a very important operation. We are working prudently and wisely—with both determination and wisdom, alongside the Israel Defense Forces—and eliminating threats.
As for the Gaza Strip: First and foremost, I wish to clarify the main point: As long as I am Prime Minister, a Palestinian state will not be established, neither in Gaza nor in Judea and Samaria. Neither 'Fatahstan' nor 'Hamastan'.
Regarding specific matters surfacing in the news lately, I wish to be precise here: Israel does not accept the 15-point document.
I have heard people saying: 'You didn't say it.' So here I am saying it again: Israel does not accept the 15-point document. The IDF will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is disarmed. And when I say the disarming of Hamas, it means heavy weaponry, lighter weaponry, all weaponry. And we are talking about genuine disarmament, not fictitious disarmament. Right now, we are talking with the Americans about this issue. They have ideas, some of which are acceptable to us and some of which are unacceptable, and we know how to stand firm against these things. We have proven this in the past and we are proving it today as well. Furthermore, the IDF will continue to thwart threats against our forces and our citizens.
The existence of Israel and the security of all Israeli citizens are not up for negotiation. We stand firm on these interests. We do not do this in advertising agencies; we actually do it on the ground. We proved this all over and over – when we entered Rafah and the Philadelphi Corridor, when we entered Lebanon and eliminated Nasrallah and the rocket stockpile there, and when we struck Iran twice. Unlike all those who lecture us, we do what needs to be done for Israel's security, and we can and know how to stand our ground, even against our best friends when necessary."
Good News for Reservists: Approximately 20,000 Opportunities to Purchase an Apartment or Land under Preferential Conditions in the Next Two Years
The Prime Minister, the Minister of Construction and Housing, and the Minister of Finance issued a joint statement today and presented the ‘From Reserve Duty to a Key’ program to expand housing benefits for reservists. Among the benefits: Approximately 20,000 housing solutions in 2026–2027, increased priority in the ‘Discount Apartment’ lotteries, and expanded ground-adjacent benefits.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Construction and Housing Minister Chaim Katz, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a joint statement today (Sunday, 9 August 2026), in which they presented the ‘From Reserve Duty to a Key’ program that will significantly expand housing benefits for reservists. The program is designed to provide a wide-ranging response for thousands of reservists and enable them to purchase an apartment or land under preferential terms and with significant discounts.
The program was formulated against the backdrop of high demand among reservists: In the latest "Discount Apartment" lottery, 25,354 reservists registered, of whom 4,734 won. Under the program, approximately 20,000 housing solutions will be added for reservists across the country during the years 2026–2027, including about 16,000 apartments under the ‘Target Price’ program and about 4,000 plots for ground-adjacent construction.
As part of the Target Price lotteries, priority for reservists will be expanded from 50% to 75% of the apartments, with an additional 25% allocated with preference for combat reservists. The discount on purchasing an apartment will amount to over NIS 500,000.
In addition, benefits for reservists purchasing plots for ground-adjacent construction in National Priority Areas A will be expanded, granting a full exemption from payment for the value of the land (excluding development costs).
The move is intended to significantly expand the supply of housing solutions for reservists and provide a response to those who have borne the burden throughout the years of war, by increasing the number of apartments and plots made available to them and deepening the benefits granted to them.
(All remarks have been translated from Hebrew.)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:
"Our heroic reservists give everything for the country, and they deserve everything. To date, the government has transferred, either through Government decisions or legislation, a massive sum of NIS 25 billion to the reservists and their families as well. And today we are bringing more news about massive support in housing. The Government is going to instruct the Land Authority, and the Housing Minister will speak about this shortly. We are going to instruct to provide either land for free in Priority Area A, or discounts of up to NIS 500,000. That is over NIS 500,000 in the Target Price program. This is huge news for 20,000 reservists who are without housing. They will be able to access and receive these things either this year, 2026, or by the year 2027. There has never been anything like this. It is about time."
Minister of Construction and Housing Chaim Katz:
"A month ago, we concluded a 'Discount Apartment' lottery, to which 25,000 reservists registered and about 4,000 of them won. We decided to make another 20,000 apartments available to the reservists, over 4,000 of which already this year and another 10,000 in 2027, with each of the winners enjoying a discount of over NIS 500,000. Those who gave must also know how to receive, and the state will give back to its reservists, because they are the main resource we have today."
The Prime Minister, the Minister of Construction and Housing, and the Minister of Finance issued a joint statement today and presented the ‘From Reserve Duty to a Key’ program to expand housing benefits for reservists. Among the benefits: Approximately 20,000 housing solutions in 2026–2027, increased priority in the ‘Discount Apartment’ lotteries, and expanded ground-adjacent benefits.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Construction and Housing Minister Chaim Katz, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a joint statement today (Sunday, 9 August 2026), in which they presented the ‘From Reserve Duty to a Key’ program that will significantly expand housing benefits for reservists. The program is designed to provide a wide-ranging response for thousands of reservists and enable them to purchase an apartment or land under preferential terms and with significant discounts.
The program was formulated against the backdrop of high demand among reservists: In the latest "Discount Apartment" lottery, 25,354 reservists registered, of whom 4,734 won. Under the program, approximately 20,000 housing solutions will be added for reservists across the country during the years 2026–2027, including about 16,000 apartments under the ‘Target Price’ program and about 4,000 plots for ground-adjacent construction.
As part of the Target Price lotteries, priority for reservists will be expanded from 50% to 75% of the apartments, with an additional 25% allocated with preference for combat reservists. The discount on purchasing an apartment will amount to over NIS 500,000.
In addition, benefits for reservists purchasing plots for ground-adjacent construction in National Priority Areas A will be expanded, granting a full exemption from payment for the value of the land (excluding development costs).
The move is intended to significantly expand the supply of housing solutions for reservists and provide a response to those who have borne the burden throughout the years of war, by increasing the number of apartments and plots made available to them and deepening the benefits granted to them.
(All remarks have been translated from Hebrew.)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:
"Our heroic reservists give everything for the country, and they deserve everything. To date, the government has transferred, either through Government decisions or legislation, a massive sum of NIS 25 billion to the reservists and their families as well. And today we are bringing more news about massive support in housing. The Government is going to instruct the Land Authority, and the Housing Minister will speak about this shortly. We are going to instruct to provide either land for free in Priority Area A, or discounts of up to NIS 500,000. That is over NIS 500,000 in the Target Price program. This is huge news for 20,000 reservists who are without housing. They will be able to access and receive these things either this year, 2026, or by the year 2027. There has never been anything like this. It is about time."
Minister of Construction and Housing Chaim Katz:
"A month ago, we concluded a 'Discount Apartment' lottery, to which 25,000 reservists registered and about 4,000 of them won. We decided to make another 20,000 apartments available to the reservists, over 4,000 of which already this year and another 10,000 in 2027, with each of the winners enjoying a discount of over NIS 500,000. Those who gave must also know how to receive, and the state will give back to its reservists, because they are the main resource we have today."
Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich:
"From the very first day of the war, we have been wrapping IDF fighters and commanders, in both regular and reserve service, in a huge umbrella of billions upon billions. Following the discounts and priority for reservists, we have made a significant decision together with the Prime Minister and the Housing Minister, according to which all reservists without housing who applied for the 'Discount Apartment' lottery will receive an apartment. Dear reservists – you deserve this."
Attached photo credits: Ma’ayan Toaf (GPO)
"From the very first day of the war, we have been wrapping IDF fighters and commanders, in both regular and reserve service, in a huge umbrella of billions upon billions. Following the discounts and priority for reservists, we have made a significant decision together with the Prime Minister and the Housing Minister, according to which all reservists without housing who applied for the 'Discount Apartment' lottery will receive an apartment. Dear reservists – you deserve this."
Attached photo credits: Ma’ayan Toaf (GPO)