New Commander Takes Helm of IDF Minorities Directorate

Colonel Mutia Dagash has assumed command of the IDF's Minorities Directorate, succeeding Colonel Safi Ibrahim, who held the position for the past two years. The handover ceremony took place on Monday at the Yigal Alon Training Base, presided over by Brigadier General Shay Tayeb, head of the Planning and Human Resources Directorate. The Minorities Directorate is responsible for integrating members of minority communities into the Israel Defense Forces across various combat, technological, and educational roles.

During Colonel Ibrahim's tenure, the directorate launched several initiatives. These included a program to establish civil emergency units in Druze towns in the Golan Heights, new pre-military preparatory programs for Druze and Bedouin candidates, and a university study track for outstanding Druze soldiers. Colonel Ibrahim, concluding 27 years of military service, described his role as the most significant he had held, offering a chance to influence the next generation and Israeli society.

Colonel Dagash outlined his vision for the directorate, emphasizing its role as a point of contact for Druze, Bedouin, Circassian, Christian, and Muslim communities, as well as students, military candidates, families, and service members. He pledged to ensure that all young men and women are aware of available opportunities for meaningful service and contribution, and to enhance support throughout their service. Dagash stated that the directorate would be actively present in communities, schools, and local authorities to identify and address barriers to equal opportunity, ensuring that a person's starting point does not dictate their end point.