IDF women soldiers. Brave women who defend their people and country

 Women have played a significant role in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) since its inception. Each year, approximately 1,500 female soldiers are drafted into the IDF, and women were employed in full combat roles during the 1947–1949 Palestine War

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. Currently, women make up 33% of soldiers who join the IDF and 51% of its currently serving officers. They serve in various roles in the ground, navy, and air forces, with 92% of all IDF units having positions open to women

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.The IDF has seen a surge in female conscripts seeking combat roles. Female soldiers can serve in tanks in the IDF's Border Defense Corps, as part of an all-female tank company in the Caracal mixed-gender light infantry battalion

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. In 2022, a company of all-women tank operators was integrated permanently into the IDF

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. The IDF also aims to begin a pilot program for female soldiers to serve in the Armored Corps

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.The IDF has been progressively opening up more roles to women. For instance, in May 2022, the IDF opened its ranks to women in Unit 669, a helicopter-borne search-and-rescue force. Two female recruits completed screening tests for this unit in December 2023

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. Furthermore, the IDF has plans to allow women to join the top commando unit Sayeret Matkal and two other units that were previously closed off to them

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.Despite these advancements, challenges remain. There are ongoing debates about the integration of women in the IDF, with some religious authorities opposing the idea

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. Moreover, women have been historically underrepresented across the upper echelons of Israel's political and military structures

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.Nevertheless, the bravery and heroism of Israeli women soldiers have been widely recognized. For instance, in the wake of a deadly attack in October 2023, the heroism of Israeli women soldiers and civilians alike was highlighted

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. There are also numerous stories of individual bravery, such as that of Yanina Jatemliansquy, a soldier in the David Company who immigrated to Israel from Argentina

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.In conclusion, women in the IDF have made significant strides in terms of their roles and responsibilities. They have demonstrated bravery and commitment in defending their country, often under challenging circumstances. However, there is still work to be done to ensure full gender integration and equality within the IDF.