IDF Chief of Staff Orders Surprise Readiness Drill Amid Regional Tensions

The Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi, ordered a surprise military-wide readiness drill codenamed "Dawn Cost 2.0" early Sunday morning. The exercise aims to test the preparedness and readiness of the General Staff and all main commands, their alert levels, and their ability to handle a sudden, complex, and large-scale multi-front incident, according to the IDF spokesperson.

In a statement regarding the drill, Kochavi declared, "It also sends a message to our enemies: the IDF is capable, prepared, and ready to defend the State of Israel, and ready to act quickly and strike with force anyone who tries to harm us." He added, "Our message is clear: anyone who tries to harm the State of Israel and its citizens will encounter a determined, prepared, and ready IDF, and will pay an immediate and very heavy price."

As part of the surprise exercise, commanders across all regional commands, directorates, and branches were mobilized. Forces were also called up, and reserve personnel were assessed. The IDF stated that the drill is part of an ongoing process to strengthen the foundations of the military, the fitness, and the readiness of all levels of soldiers and commanders.

The exercise's objective is to examine the IDF's alert and readiness levels for various surprise operational scenarios, the activation of alert systems and reserves, decision-making processes, and the operational response at all levels, from regional commands to the General Staff. This is in preparation for the upcoming holiday period and to bolster defenses.

The drill also involves practicing and testing the implementation of operational plans, incorporating lessons learned from combat in various sectors and from the events of October 7.