IDF Lacks Heroism Award Recommendations a Year After Defense Minister's Directive
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
A year after Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the IDF to submit recommendations for heroism awards from the "Swords of Iron" war, the military has not yet done so, citing the need for comprehensive staff work on all commendations.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- IDF has not submitted heroism award recommendations a year after directive.
- Defense Minister Israel Katz requested recommendations by October 2025.
- The delay is attributed to the IDF's desire to process all awards together.
- The IDF plans to present conclusions to bereaved families and media.
A year after Defense Minister Israel Katz directed the Chief of Staff to submit recommendations for heroism awards stemming from the "Swords of Iron" war, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have yet to present them. Katz sent a letter to Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir on October 15, 2025, urging him to propose recipients for heroism citations, particularly for actions during the October 7th attacks. The directive was based on the Decorations Law, which allows the Defense Minister, upon the Chief of Staff's recommendation, to award the Medal of Valor for supreme acts of bravery in combat against an enemy while risking one's life.
Katz requested the recommendations within 90 days. However, the deadline has long passed, and the IDF has reportedly sought and received several extensions. Sources suggest the delay stems from the IDF's desire to complete its staff work on all decorations and commendations, including the Medal of Courage and the Medal of Distinction, as a single package. While the Medal of Valor requires the Defense Minister's approval, the latter two and other commendations are decided at the military level.
The IDF stated that discussions have been held with senior commanders regarding the commendations, which are viewed as a significant value and command milestone. They emphasized that all decisions are made after thorough staff work and adherence to procedures. The IDF plans to present the conclusions and proposed framework for recommendations and decisions transparently to bereaved families and the media once the staff work is complete.
