Defense Ministry
The Israeli Defense Ministry is the government body that manages the security network and oversees security affairs for the state.
The state institutions managed by the Defense Ministry include the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), national museums, archives and memorials, as well as civil, political, and legal divisions that support the military and security network. The Defense Ministry serves as a bridge between the military and civilian infrastructure, including managing budgets, recruitment, and grand strategic decisions. The Defense Ministry also oversees and coordinates national emergencies and responses through the National Emergency Authority (NEMA).
In 2021, the defense minister was Benny Gantz and the director-general was Amir Eshel, who was appointed to the position in 2020. The ministry has had 21 ministers and 24 director-generals since its establishment until 2021. The ministry's headquarters is in Tel Aviv, in the Kirya.
The Defense Ministry works closely with Israeli defense industries. The International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT) lobbies foreign governments and holds exhibitions to secure contracts for Israeli private and public defense companies. The Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) researches and promotes new innovations in the fields of defense and security.
The Defense Ministry was established just after the dissolution of the British Mandate, in 1948, and collected and organized the Jewish militia groups into a concerted military and defense force.
From Europe to Asia: Why Israel’s defense tech is in high demand - analysis
In 2024, Israel hit a record $14.7 billion in defense exports, driven by European demand for its advanced, battle-proven systems and strengthened by global partnerships.
European countries buying new highs of defense products despite voicing criticism of Israel
Defense Ministry awards security prize to 'movie-like' systems behind Nasrallah killing
Israel approves 22 West Bank settlements amid war with Hamas, pressure for Palestinian state
Gov't approves establishment of 22 new West Bank settlements
The decision includes plans to renew settlement activity in northern Samaria and develop new communities along the Jordan Valley border.
Historic breakthrough: IDF reveals Iron Beam-like laser defense shot down dozens of aerial threats
The Iron Beam is the most advanced, operational laser in the world, though England, the US, and others have relatively advanced lasers.
Shin Bet thwarts Iranian plot to use Israelis to spy on Defense Minister Katz
Both Israelis, from the town of Nesher, were lured in by Tehran due to millions in gambling debt and the promise to help pay off their debts.
From surge to strain: Why Israel's reservists are no longer rushing back - analysis
After nineteen months of war and national debate, the intensity of feeling among reservists has begun to wane.
Firefighters continue to battle Jerusalem fire as train service resumes, evacuated residents return
Eight aircraft from Cyprus and Italy are expected to arrive on Thursday afternoon.
DeepMind UK staff plan to unionize and challenge deals with Israel links
Media reports that suggest Google is selling its cloud services and AI technology to the Israeli defense ministry have caused disquiet among employees, according to the report.
Component in F-35 stealth fighter jets creates safety issue in aircraft
F lights on the aircrafts were approved after the component was inspected and a series of tests were performed.
Katz unveils intercepted document connecting Iran to Hamas Oct. 7 invasion
The document was intercepted by Israeli soldiers during the invasion of Gaza and forwarded to the IDF intelligence Catalogue unit.
Israel appoints director to oversee 'voluntary emigration' of Palestinians from Gaza
Blitstein, currently Defense Ministry deputy director-general, previously served as director-general of the foreign ministry and energy ministry, respectively, among other senior positions.
‘Rehabilitation before bureaucracy’: Israel puts wounded first at global conference
Following the October 7 attacks, the number of wounded soldiers and other security personnel rose to more than 78,000, including 16,000 who had joined only after then.
Defense Ministry signs deal to customize 12 CH-53K helicopters for IAF
As part of the new agreement, Sikorsky will establish a dedicated production line to adapt each helicopter to meet the IAF’s operational requirements.
