“I’m not afraid to confront terrorists if necessary,” explains Lieutenant Ada, a commander in the co-ed Caracal Battalion on the Israel-Sinai border. “ISIS fighters are terrified of being defeated by a woman, it completely contradicts their radical beliefs.”  

The Israel-Sinai border has become increasingly tense as terror organizations, including  ISIS-affiliated groups, have solidified their presence and created instability in the region.

Ansar Bait al-Maqdis in Sinai pledge their allegiance to ISIS. Photo Credit: i24 News

The Caracal Battalion is responsible for defending the volatile Israel-Sinai border. Established in 2004, Caracal was the first battalion to fully integrate women as combat soldiers. The battalion is trained to deal with terrorist infiltrations, bombs on the border, shootings, smuggling and criminal events.

“We are here to stand up against terrorism”

“After the Russian plane went down, we realized how tangible the threat has become,” says Lt. Ada. “My soldiers need to know that we are here to stand up against terrorism. I’m not afraid to confront terrorists if necessary. ISIS fighters are terrified of being defeated by a woman, it completely contradicts their radical beliefs.”

“I’m here to protect these people”

Cpl. Noy Haim-Bar explains the importance of the battalion’s work on the border. “When we go out to patrol the border, I look back at the Israeli communities. I see the lights in the homes and the families having dinner. These are the moments when I fully understand why I’m doing what I’m doing. I’m here to protect these people.”