The IDF is taking a new approach to military exercises incorporating lessons learned from October 7. Ynet reports that the “Lion’s Roar” exercises have been completed in the West Bank by the IDF with about 180 aircraft and more than 40 simulated scenarios. It was also the first time in an exercise where two divisions operated together, as the IDF seeks to strengthen coordination and joint capabilities in the event of a terror attack like October 7.
Participating divisions included the Judea and Samaria divisions, as well as the newly established Gilead 96th, who are stationed along the Jordan Valley. Training covered combat in urban centers, mass casualty rescue, medical evacuation, intelligence integration, and better-timed command and control in the event of a widespread terror attack.
The scenarios were shaped by lessons learned from the October 7 attacks, emphasizing rapid target strikes during the “golden hour,” the deployment of special forces, and the full mobilization of the IDF system. One of the drills simulated large numbers of terrorists invading from the Jordanian border, launching killing and kidnapping sprees in Judea and Samaria. The exercise included terrorists using powered parachutes to drop explosives, alongside responses to a collapsed building in Ariel and burned vehicles, with close air support from fighter jets and helicopters.
The IDF stressed a particular focus on real-time operational connectivity and situational awareness—key conclusions from the Hamas assault. To that end, the Air Force expanded its control centers and added air reconnaissance officers from local communities to improve coordination between air and ground forces. A broad target bank was prepared for immediate strikes even under uncertain conditions, and new response protocols were set for troops deployed in the field.
The IDF has reported speedy mobilization, with dozens of troops arriving in less than 45 minutes. Within an hour and 15 minutes, 90% of the newly formed Gilead Division reported in. The IDF Spokesperson said that regular drills like these will be conducted to ensure high readiness.
With four deceased hostages remaining in Gaza and Hezbollah infrastructure being eliminated in Lebanon, we pray that the fighting will come to an end completely, and that God’s precious gift of shalom, peace, will cover the entire region.