Israeli Air Force

Independence Day in israel: Reflecting on war, peace, and uncertainty

This year’s Independence Day in Israel brings a mix of celebration and somber reflection, as tensions with Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran continue to shape the nation's future.

The Jerusalem Dispatch
IDF soldiers operate in southern Lebanon, published April 28, 2026.

WATCH: IDF destroys over 1,000 Hezbollah terror sites in southern Lebanon, seizing weapons

An IAF Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk demonstrating a simulated evacuation operation at the fighter pilot's graduation ceremony, June 24, 2013; illustrative.

IAF pilots took off under fire, bypassing commander in Lebanon helicopter attack, probe finds

Smoke rises as the IDF strikes targets in southern Lebanon near the border as seen from the Upper Galilee in northern Israel on April 27, 2026.

WATCH: IDF attacks 100 km. deep into Lebanon for first time in weeks


WATCH: IDF helicopter evacuates wounded soldiers amid heavy fire, drone impacts meters away

The Air Force helicopter took off from the scene within seconds to avoid a direct hit after detecting additional drones launched into the area.

An Israeli military helicopter flies near the Israeli border with Lebanon, during the war with Iran and Hezbollah and ongoing missile fire toward Israel, March 28, 2026.

Israeli Air Force technicians indicted for spying on IDF chief, Ben-Gvir at Iran's behest

According to the indictment, the soldiers conducted a variety of missions for Iran, including an instance in which one of them sent an Iranian agent training materials.

IDF technicians prepare a fighter jet for operational activity, August 24, 2025

Two Israel Air Force technicians charged with spying for Iran - KAN

Two Israeli Air Force technicians are set to be charged with espionage for Iran after allegedly leaking sensitive documents during Operation Roaring Lion.

 Israel Air Force fighter jet F-15, at the Tel Nor airforce base. January 01, 2024.

IDF killed 20 Hezbollah terrorists, struck over 70 targets in op. prior to Lebanon ceasefire

According to the IDF, the operation was conducted around Dibbin, approximately 12 km. inside Lebanese territory, by the 91st Division, in coordination with the Israeli Air Force.

IDF TROOPS from the 769th Brigade in the area of Dibbin in southern Lebanon.

IAF pilot reveals he considered recording keepsakes for his family during Operation Roaring Lion

An IAF pilot shared how he contemplated recording a message for his family during Operation Roaring Lion, focusing on the mission despite the emotional challenges.

An Israeli F-16 taking off at an undisclosed location, published on March 11, 2026.

Israel projects strength abroad but struggles to protect its citizens at home - opinion

Israel shows power in wars abroad but struggles to have clarity and consistency in the West Bank, where civilians face ongoing terror.

A general view of houses in the Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim in the West Bank

PMO appoints new Mossad chief, Trump orders Hormuz blockade after US-Iran talks fail

Vance: No deal reached after talks with Iran • CENTCOM clears underwater mines in Hormuz • Netanyahu says Israel's war with Iran 'not over yet'

Mossad Director Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman attends a ceremony marking the lighting of the first Hanukkah candle of the 7th Armored Brigade at the National Library in Jerusalem, on December 14, 2025.

Vance: No deal reached after talks with Iran, Netanyahu says Iran campaign 'not over yet'

John Kerry: Netanyahu presented Iran attack plan to former presidents • Iran warns military vessels against transiting Strait of Hormuz • CENTCOM clears underwater mines in Hormuz

Detail view of US Vice President JD Vance motorcade is seen at the Serena Hotel shortly after his arrival on April 11, 2026 at Islamabad, Pakistan.

IDF destroys launcher fired from inside school, Israel excludes France from talks with Lebanon

IDF reservist severely wounded, another soldier lightly injured by shrapnel • Israel expels Spain from US's CMCC in Kiryat Gat over 'blatant anti-Israel bias'

IDF soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, April 10, 2026.

Netanyahu announces negotiations to begin with Lebanon, IDF braces for Hezbollah missiles

IDF kills Hezbollah chief's secretary • US military to stay in region until ceasefire complied with • Israeli arrested in Iranian plot to assassinate former PM Bennett

IDF soldiers of the Paratroopers Brigade, operating under the 98th Division, seen during operational activity in southern Lebanon, April 2026.