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The Israeli Defense Force's Mission

Every ground, aerial and naval operational activity and exercise they conduct is first and foremost carried out for the sake of defending the State of Israel and its civilians.

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They face terrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad, all of which pose a regional and international threat. They further leverage their capabilities to provide humanitarian aid to countries worldwide in times of crisis and develop groundbreaking technologies and tactics in the field of defense. They focus on maintaining the security of Israeli civilians every single day but their activities aim to contribute to the overall safety of civilians everywhere.

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They believe that courage, loyalty and diversity, unified by the common goal of defense are essential to their mission. When combined, they create the unique strength that enables the IDF to thrive. People from every corner of Israel, every religion and every walk of life come together in order to serve in the IDF. Their soldiers invest their time, withstand challenges, and often risk their lives to protect the State of Israel from its enemies and ensure the safety of the people they love. 

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They are the Israel Defense Forces. Defense is their mission—security is their goal.

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Israel on the Frontline of International Humanitarian Aid

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From providing first response after the devastating Haiti earthquake to decades of capacity building and humanitarian assistance across Africa, Israel has consistently demonstrated its commitment to international and local aid. The Israeli government and its people exhibit an exceptional level of humanitarian awareness and responsibility.

One of the most notable examples of Israel's commitment is its rapid response to global crises. In January 2010, just hours after the catastrophic earthquake struck                                                                              Haiti, Israel's 200-strong relief team was                                                                              among the first to arrive on the scene. This                                                                        team, consisting of medical personnel,                                                                              engineers, and other specialists, played a                                                                          crucial role in delivering emergency                                                                                    medical care, conducting search and                                                                                  rescue operations, and providing essential                                                                        supplies. Their efforts were instrumental in                                                                        saving thousands of lives and alleviating                                                                            the suffering of countless others.

 

Beyond immediate disaster response, Israel has also been a significant contributor to long-term humanitarian projects. For decades, Israeli organizations have been involved in capacity-building efforts across Africa, offering support in areas such as agriculture, water management, and education. These initiatives have helped to strengthen local communities and improve the quality of life for many.

In addition to international aid, Israel has also provided emergency assistance in conflict zones, including Gaza.

 

The Israeli government has facilitated medical transfers and delivered humanitarian supplies to address urgent needs amid challenging conditions.

Through these varied efforts, Israel continues to exemplify a robust commitment to humanitarian aid, embodying a proactive and compassionate approach to global and local challenges.

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In March 2011, following the

catastrophic earthquakes in Japan,

Israel demonstrated its commitment

to international aid by being one of

the first countries to respond. Acting

swiftly upon the Japanese

government's request, Israel

dispatched a specialized medical

team and established a field clinic

to provide critical care in the

disaster-stricken areas. This quick

and effective response highlighted Israel's readiness to assist in global emergencies.

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Israel's proficiency in handling mass casualties is well-established. The country has earned a reputation for its ability to deploy search and rescue teams and field hospitals with unmatched speed and effectiveness. This capability is the result of extensive experience and well-coordinated efforts in various high-stress environments.

In addition to its response to the Japanese earthquake, Israel has a history of providing crucial aid in other major disasters. Following Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005, Israel promptly sent medical teams and relief supplies to support the overwhelmed local response efforts. During the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Israel made significant contributions by delivering 60 tons of humanitarian aid to Indonesia and 82 tons of relief supplies to Sri Lanka. These actions were pivotal in assisting the recovery and rebuilding processes in the affected regions.

Israel's rapid and effective response to global crises, coupled with its extensive humanitarian contributions, underscores its role as a leader in international disaster relief and recovery efforts.

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Following the devastating 2005 earthquake in Kashmir, the Israeli humanitarian organization Flying Aid launched a mission to provide essential supplies and shelter for thousands of affected families. This initiative was part of a broader commitment by Israel to offer timely and effective aid in the wake of natural disasters.

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In 2009, Israeli medical teams extended their support to victims of severe storms in the Philippines, delivering emergency medical care and assistance. Additionally, in the previous year, Israel had already contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts by providing food aid to communities in the Congo, addressing critical needs in a region grappling with complex challenges.

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Israel's dedication to humanitarian aid is further exemplified by its inclusion in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 2010. As a 31-member economic forum, the OECD represents nations committed to upholding high standards of economic and social policy, including humanitarian principles. Israel's membership in this prestigious organization underscores its commitment to international cooperation and the highest levels of humanitarian engagement.

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Through these varied efforts, Israel continues to demonstrate its role as a proactive and compassionate leader in global disaster response and humanitarian assistance.

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Starting 10 years after its founding, Israel adopted an official humanitarian aid agenda, providing vital relief to more than 140 countries. Among those countries receiving aid are nations that do not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel.

Since 1959, Israeli doctors have been offering eye camps to treat ocular diseases to people throughout the developing world.

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In 1970 Israel started opening its doors to the world's refugees. It has saved non-Jewish people in distress and those seeking refuge from countries such as Lebanon, Egypt, Iran, Vietnam, Bosnia, Kosovo, Eritrea and Sudan. 

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Since 1995 Israeli doctors acting through Save a Child's Heart have been giving kids from around the world, including from the Palestinian Authority (PA), Iraq, Jordan and other Arab nations free life-saving heart operations. Since the organization first started 2,300 children have been treated, and almost half are from the PA, Jordan and Iraq.

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IDF aid missions help thousands around the world: Over the last 26 years, Israel has sent out 15 aid missions to countries struck by natural disasters. Immediately upon arriving in these countries, IDF doctors set up field hospitals. Overall, medical care was given to more than 2,300 people in afflicted areas, and 220 were saved from certain death.

In Israel, the spirit of service extends far beyond military duty. After completing their mandatory military service, many Israelis choose to continue their commitment to helping others through volunteer work. This dedication reflects a deeply ingrained cultural value, where kindness, compassion, and generosity are not just ideals but everyday norms. It is a fundamental part of life in Israel, woven into the fabric of society. One prominent initiative embodying this ethos is the organization "Heroes for Life." Founded to showcase the genuine, caring side of Israel, this organization highlights the profound impact of Israeli volunteers who dedicate their time and resources to various causes, from supporting disadvantaged communities to providing aid in times of crisis. Through these efforts, "Heroes for Life" illustrates that the values of service and humanitarianism are integral to the Israeli way of life, revealing the true face of a nation committed to making a positive difference in the world.

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