By David Hergoz
Israel, the smallest nation in the Middle East, is surrounded by hostile adversaries—such as Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and historically belligerent states like Syria and Egypt.
For many of them, like Iran and its proxy terrorist groups like Gaza’s Hamas, Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthis, their ultimate desire is Israel’s destruction, which they have openly stated consistently for decades.
Despite these existential threats, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have never lost a war since Israel’s founding in 1948.
This is evidence of its unmatched strategic brilliance, technological innovation, and relentless determination.
During the War of Independence (1948-1949), facing the invasion from five Arab armies (Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq) with superior numbers and weaponry, the fledgling IDF secured Israel’s survival.
Outmanned and under-equipped, the IDF’s tactical ingenuity and resolve established a sovereign state against overwhelming odds.
During the Six-Day War (1967), in a preemptive strike against an imminent Arab assault, the IDF achieved a decisive victory in just six days.
Destroying the air forces of Egypt, Jordan, and Syria in hours and capturing the Sinai Peninsula, West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza Strip, and Golan Heights, the IDF reshaped the region’s geopolitical landscape.
During the Yom Kippur War (1973), caught off-guard by a coordinated Egyptian-Syrian attack during a sacred holiday, the IDF mounted a rapid recovery.
Israeli forces crossed the Suez Canal, encircled Egypt’s Third Army, and advanced toward Damascus, securing a strategic victory despite initial setbacks.
During the Operation Entebbe (1976), in one of history’s most audacious operations, the IDF rescued 102 hostages held by Palestinian terrorists in Uganda, 2,500 miles away.
Elite Sayeret Matkal commandos executed the mission with precision, demonstrating Israel’s global reach and commitment to its citizens.
In its Counterterrorism Operations, the IDF has consistently neutralized threats from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Operations like Cast Lead (2008-2009), Protective Edge (2014), and Guardian of the Walls (2021) showcased precision strikes and the Iron Dome’s effectiveness, intercepting thousands of rockets and saving countless lives.
One of the factors that make the IDF is Israel’s Technological Superiority.
Israel’s defense industry, led by companies like Rafael and Israel Aerospace Industries, produces cutting-edge systems like the Merkava tank, Iron Dome, and Arrow missile defense is top notch.
The IDF’s integration of AI, cyber warfare, and drones ensures a qualitative edge over adversaries.
Another crucial factor is Israel’s Intelligence Dominance. Supported by Mossad and Unit 8200, the IDF leverages unmatched intelligence to preempt threats, from Iranian nuclear ambitions to Hezbollah’s missile stockpiles.
Also responsible for Israel’s invincibility is its Adaptability and Innovation. The IDF’s ability to learn from conflicts—developing Iron Dome to counter rockets or cyber defenses against digital threats—keeps it ahead of evolving challenges.
Another notable feature of Israel’s dominance is its National Resolve. The IDF’s operations reflect a unified commitment to defend Israel, driven by the necessity of survival in a hostile region.
The IDF’s unbroken record of victories has deterred aggression and ensured Israel’s survival against overwhelming odds.
Its air force, among the world’s elite, maintains regional air superiority, while its cyber and intelligence capabilities disrupt enemy plans globally.
From countering Iran’s proxies to neutralizing terrorist infrastructure, the IDF’s actions reinforce Israel’s role as a bulwark against regional threats.
