Former PM Naftali Bennett Reflects on Tough Start in Elite IDF Unit After 36 Years

Naftali Bennett, Israel's former prime minister, shared a personal reflection marking 36 years since his enlistment in the elite IDF unit Sayeret Matkal. In a post addressed to the August 2026 military recruits, Bennett recounted his difficult early weeks during basic training. Unlike many of his peers, he lacked a military family background and felt like an outsider, as his parents were new immigrants with little connection to Israeli society.

Bennett described struggling to understand expectations, frequently asking questions, and receiving numerous punishments for mistakes, a condition he referred to as 'shock at the recruitment center,' now known as 'shockist.' Despite the rough start, he persevered, completing the Sayeret Matkal course and later serving as a platoon and company commander in the Maglan unit. He credited these formative years with shaping his character.

He concluded with a message of encouragement to new recruits, acknowledging that many may face a challenging beginning but emphasizing that a difficult start can still lead to a successful and proud outcome. Bennett urged them not to lose hope, assuring them that the hard times will eventually pass and become a source of pride.