Israeli Female Soldiers Lead Successful Operations Against Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have deployed female soldiers to combat Hezbollah in southern Lebanon for the first time, marking a significant shift in Israel’s military strategy. This move comes amid escalating tensions since October of last year, with ground operations commencing in September this year following intense border clashes.

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Israeli Female Soldiers Lead Successful Operations Against Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon


Recently, the IDF released footage showing female soldiers entering southern Lebanon in armored vehicles. The video also depicted them carrying military equipment and firearms as they entered buildings and patrolled jungle trails. This mission, named "Operation Southern Lebanon," highlights the inclusion of women in direct combat roles.

Tehila, a 21-year-old IDF corporal from the elite “Eitam” Battalion, shared her experience with The Jerusalem Post:
"We infiltrated terrorist-held areas on foot and identified targets. It was thrilling. This isn’t espionage; our entire team was armed and ready."

Another 20-year-old corporal, Shani, explained their mission’s depth:
"We advanced about 1.5 kilometers into Lebanon, exploring areas that hadn’t been previously scouted. It was a unique opportunity to gather critical intelligence."

Shani also described the tactical nature of their operations:
"We recorded and analyzed tank fire while on the battlefield, which provided us with a clearer understanding of enemy movements."

The IDF claims that their female units have identified several Hezbollah hideouts, including locations for anti-tank missile storage. These discoveries have enabled precise strikes against the group. IDF sources also suggest that Hezbollah fighters, under sustained Israeli attacks, have abandoned urban areas and are now operating from rural villages in Lebanon.

Furthermore, Israel alleges that Hezbollah has been using schools, hospitals, and residential homes to establish bases, a claim that Hezbollah has previously denied.

Under Israeli law, all citizens are required to undergo military training and serve in the army. Until now, female soldiers were predominantly in reserve or non-combat roles. However, the government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has changed this policy, deploying women directly to the front lines.

The inclusion of female soldiers in active combat marks a pivotal moment in Israel’s military history, reflecting both the challenges of the ongoing conflict and a broader shift toward gender integration in armed forces.