Defense & Security

An Israeli official says Thursday's agreement with Bahrain was the first such pact that Israel had reached with one of its new allies in the Gulf.

The maritime exercise includes 60 nations and organizations with Israel joining for the first time alongside nations that do not recognize it.

"Within a year already the IDF will bring into action a laser-based interception system, first experimentally, and later operationally, first in the south, then in other places," says Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, adding that the new system will be far more cost effective against rocket threats.

Lt. Col. Ofer Tchorz of the 74th tank battalion says the exercise simulated combat against Hezbollah in Lebanon, in which the battalion would have to navigate hilly terrain and take on a heavily armed enemy that uses guerilla warfare tactics and fights out of populated areas.

The Dakar-class diesel-electric submarines are expected to be delivered within nine years, Defense Ministry says. The procurement "will upgrade the capabilities of the Israeli Navy, and will contribute to Israel’s security superiority in the region," says Defense Minister Benny Gantz.

Designed to intercept intercontinental ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere, Arrow represents the highest level of Israel’s multi-tiered air defense.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper says the "visit reflects our strong commitment to the enduring strategic relationship fostered over decades."

“With minimal resources available, the police are collapsing under the weight of the missions it is required to fulfill, and in addition, it has to enforce coronavirus regulations. At the end of the day, the public pays the price," top police official says in wake of recent criticism.

The military's plan reportedly seeks to accommodate requests by the heads of religious colleges.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett: The goal is for the National Counterterrorism Unit to be the of its kind in the world.