Statement by IDF Spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, in Mark of International Women’s Day:

Today we mark International Women’s Day. 

This year, more than any other year, we were reminded of what female power is at its best. 

During the war, I encountered countless moving, powerful stories about the strong women serving the IDF. In both active and reserve duty, they fight in the heart of the battlefield and defend Israel along every border, on the ground, in the air and at sea. We also remember the female soldiers who fell, thanks to whom we are here today.

We salute their fighting spirit and courage, their unwavering professionalism, their bravery, fortitude, resilience, set of values and strengths that leave no shadow of a doubt [as to what they are capable of]. 

For the wives of the reservists and active-duty soldiers, without your support, we could not operate on the battlefield in the way we are today.

I salute you all—today and every day of the year.

Like every day, we do not forget the 134 hostages held in Hamas captivity, among them 19 women who cannot mark Women’s Day. 

Agam, Liri, Karina, Daniela, Naama, Shiri, Carmel, Noa, Arbel, Amit, Doron, Emily, Eden, Romi, Ofra, Judy, Inbar, Shani and Maya.

We will not stop for a moment; we will continue to make every effort until all the hostages are home.

Our hearts are incomplete without you.