Israel’s defense forces are transitioning from coordination with the European Command to the Central Command area of responsibility. Taking precautions such as social distancing, wearing masks and conducting frequent tests enabled Hokanson’s team to safely engage with their Israeli counterparts. “Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Guard and Israel were conducting more than 40 engagements each year.” “This visit enabled us to take a fresh look at this unique partnership,” Hokanson said. The National Guard’s bilateral relationship with Israel supports Defense Department and geographic combatant command objectives.

“These programs help increase the number of survivors and reduce the number of victims, which significantly helps first responders during a disaster.” “In the U.S., we have programs such as that encourage people to build emergency kits, plan in advance, understand the emergency alert system and anticipate challenges,” Hokanson said. Officers briefed Hokanson on tools the nation uses to ensure residents receive timely and accurate information during a crisis, including smartphone apps.

Israeli authorities invest considerable resources in building citizens’ resilience, so people are prepared for natural or manmade disasters. “We’re looking forward to strengthening our work together via joint training and expanded exercises,” Hokanson said. The partners share best practices from both real-world and training events. “It’s a two-way relationship.”Īmong topics National Guardsmen and Home Front Command troops share knowledge about: crisis and consequence management, population resilience, and defense support to civil authorities. “We learn from each other,” Hokanson said. Lives were likely saved, officials said.Īnd Israeli firefighters helped with this year’s California wildfires, which have burned an area the size of Maryland. The same HFC team brought lessons they learned in Miami back home, and three buildings in Israel were subsequently declared unsafe. Israel’s support to the search for victims after the June collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium building in Surfside, Florida, is an example of the exchange of expertise.Īn HFC search and rescue team used advanced technology to help first responders precisely locate victims in the rubble of the pancaked building. “Our primary goal is to strengthen American and Israeli crisis response and consequence management capabilities.” Ori Gordin, Home Front Command commander. Daniel Hokanson said after a Wednesday signing ceremony with Maj. “Our security cooperation partnership in homeland defense has enhanced the safety of citizens of both nations,” Army Gen. TEL AVIV, Israel – The chief of the National Guard Bureau and the commanding general of Israel’s Home Front Command reaffirmed the National Guard Bureau’s 15-year bilateral relationship with Israel here last week.

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