A Personal Thank You from the IDF Chief of Staff

We wanted to share a powerful letter we received from the IDF’s new Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. In it, he personally thanks you, our FIDF supporters, for standing by the defenders of Israel. His words are a meaningful reminder of the impact this community makes and the strength of the partnership we’ve built together for more than 40 years.

Dear Friends of the IDF,

It is an honour to write to you for the first time in my capacity as Chief of the General Staff of the IDF. In my various previous roles, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact you’ve had on the IDF and its soldiers, and I have come to deeply appreciate the depth and significance of your continued support.  

The IDF is the people’s army, and its mission is to safeguard the security and existence of the nation­state of the Jewish people. Within its ranks serve soldiers and commanders from all sectors of Israeli society, alongside members of Jewish communities worldwide, who come together in pursuit of a shared goal: to defend the State of Israel, fortify its security, and secure its future as a free and strong Jewish state In our ancestral homeland.  

Now more than ever, we profoundly appreciate the importance of our partnership, your generosity and the unwavering commitment of Diaspora Jews to the future of our homeland. During Operation “Rising Lion”, the IDF, in cooperation with the United States Armed Forces, acted toward a shared objective and delivered a significant blow to Iran’s nuclear program. Alongside us, you, our Jewish brothers and sisters around the world, have also joined in this vital struggle for our homeland. 

Through your actions, your support, and your voices, you have stood as a steadfast barrier against those who seek to challenge Israel’s right to defend itself. Your contributions are evident throughout the army, from building new infrastructure and improving conditions for IDF soldiers, to providing personal support for those serving and their families.  

Thanks to you, many soldiers receive assistance and the opportunity for a better future, through scholarships, financial aid, and ongoing encouragement for growth and advancement. Your commitment to giving, instills IDF soldiers with a sense of purpose and meaning, reinforcing their knowledge that they are not alone and that the bond between the Israel Defense Forces and the Jewish people around the world remains unshakable and stronger than ever before. Your generosity is a living testament to the profound bond between us-that we are one people, united in responsibility for our shared destiny, committed to our future, and confident in the justice of our cause.  

On behalf of myself and the Israel Defense Forces, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your years of dedicated work and your steadfast support for IDF soldiers and the State of Israel. We are engaged in a just war for our homeland, and many challenges still lie ahead. We will not relent until we bring our hostages home, achieve victory, and restore lasting security to our nation. 

I thank you for your invaluable contribution. Because of you, we will continue to stand strong and ensure the safety of the State of Israel. I look forward to our continued, impactful partnership – working together for a secure and promising future for us all. 

With deepest respect,

Eyal Zamir
Chief of the General Staff