Tomer Bar

Outgoing IAF chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar in his parting speech: The Air Force was "only a step away" from having its foundations undermined during the judicial overhaul protests nearly three years ago.

Bar: "We drew the clear boundary line b...

Outgoing IAF chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar in his parting speech: The Air Force was "only a step away" from having its foundations undermined during the judicial overhaul protests nearly three years ago.

Bar: "We drew the clear boundary line between politics and influence and the IDF. This was not easy, but we fought to preserve the competence and cohesion of the Air Force."

He says he still stands by the decision to keep protests out of the IAF, adding that when war broke out, "all the servicemen and women proved devotion and resilience on the day of command, on October 7th, and also when we faced the challenges of the war in seven arenas simultaneously."

IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar on the decision to purchase two new fighter squadrons for the IDF:

"The decision is the result of in-depth and prolonged staff work in the Air Force, based on years of professional examination driven by op...

IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar on the decision to purchase two new fighter squadrons for the IDF:

"The decision is the result of in-depth and prolonged staff work in the Air Force, based on years of professional examination driven by operational need, with a broad view of force building and adapting to developing threats in the Middle East. The work was based on precise planning to ensure air superiority for the Air Force and the State of Israel for many years. The purchase is a result of close cooperation with the United States military, which intensified during Operation Lion's Roar and is a strategic component of national security. The new squadrons will add significant strength to the Air Force and allow us to continue to act with determination, flexibility, and superiority in the face of any challenge."