IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir honored the bravery and sacrifice of fallen Commando Brigade soldiers at a memorial ceremony in Modi’in on Tuesday, pledging to implement the lessons of October 7, strengthen the military, and prevent future threats to Israel’s security.
Addressing soldiers, commanders, and bereaved families, Zamir praised the brigade’s courage, determination, and dedication, describing it as the IDF’s “striking fist” at the forefront of operations against Israel’s enemies. He highlighted the combined strength of its elite Egoz, Maglan, and Duvdevan units, emphasizing their professionalism, operational experience, and tactical ingenuity in carrying out complex missions on the front lines and deep within enemy territory.
Zamir also stressed the military’s responsibility to expand its ranks, reinforce the importance of IDF service, and recognize combat soldiers as national heroes and examples of Zionist excellence.
Addressing the bereaved families, Zamir emphasized that the memory of fallen soldiers continues to guide their comrades in battle, shaping their actions and the values they uphold.
Commanders and fellow soldiers “carry the memory of your loved ones with them as they head out on their missions. In decisive moments, the image of your loved ones, their fallen comrades, is present within them: how they acted, the values that guided them, and the standards they set for themselves,” he said.
Turning to the lessons of October 7, Zamir stressed the need to turn the military’s failures and the lessons learned into concrete changes to Israel’s defense strategy.
“We have drawn profound insights that we are committed to translating into action; we are building the IDF for the future, updating our security doctrine, and actively implementing the lessons learned,” Zamir said.
“This is the professional and moral imperative incumbent upon us: to ensure that the lessons of October 7th remain forever before our eyes,” he added.
Zamir outlined a strategy centered on preemptively eliminating enemy capabilities before threats can materialize, while pursuing those who seek to undermine Israel’s existence.
“We will act to preemptively destroy our enemy’s capabilities, prevent threats to our future from emerging, and relentlessly pursue those who seek to deny our right to exist in our land,” he declared.