Addressing the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies Conference, “Israel Towards 2020: Perils and Prospects” on Tuesday, 4 Cheshvan 5774, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz warned war can occur at any moment. Gantz explained the IDF is constantly preparing and must be ready for such a possibility, for it is a real one.

He named many scenarios, none too pretty, including explosions in the Golan Heights followed by the abduction of soldiers and an area commander by al-Qaeda terrorists, Hizbullah rocket fire into the north, or attacks on the Gaza and/or Eilat borders. He mentioned a missile strike targeting the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv, or a bomb tunnel exploding under a kindergarten. The commander spoke of many scenarios that might present themselves, emphasizing the need for IDF preparedness.

He continued by addressing cyber warfare and the need to constantly defend against these assaults, which may target Israel Electric Company, banks, or other computers that are responsible for maintaining our day-to-day lives. Gantz told participants in the conference that there are daily efforts to attack both IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians. He explained that while any of these scenarios may become reality for a future IDF chief of staff, he may wake up to any of them tomorrow morning as well.

Gantz explained the IDF is well aware of national priorities and the fact that when it comes to national security there is no margin of error.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)