Israel Halts Women’s Combat Mobility Pilot Program

A big news related to women soldiers is coming out in Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has ended a pilot program. It is being told that this is being done in view of health and fitness concerns.

The trained women were to serve in a 'combat unit' that delivers equipment and supplies to infantry forces in enemy territory and heals wounded soldiers.

According to a report in the Jerusalem Post, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir decided to close it on Thursday (May 29).

According to the IDF, the performance of the women who went through the combat course was strong and equal to their male counterparts, but their 'level of physical and combat fitness was below the standards required for the role.

The new pilot program for female infantry recruitment will begin next year after canceling the current six-month plan. Meanwhile, women who have enrolled in the course will be offered other combat opportunities in the army if they wish to continue, or can go on office duty if they want a change.

Campaign launched after terrorist attack

Ever since Hamas-led militants rampaged through southern Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing nearly 1,200 people, Tel Aviv has launched a massive campaign to avenge the losses.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the death of Hamas Gaza chief Muhammad Sinwar. Muhammad Sinwar was the brother of former Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, who was killed in clashes with the Israeli army in October 2024. Yahya Sinwar masterminded the October 7 terrorist attacks.