The military units that served with distinction during the Iron Swords War
The Golani Brigade is one of the Israel Defense Forces’ oldest, most decorated, and battle-hardened infantry units. Its primary mission is to defend Israel’s borders and civilians, specializing in close-quarters combat, rapid maneuver warfare, and counterterror operations against Iran-backed terrorist groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Renowned for its tenacity and courage, Golani has been pivotal in Israel’s wars, from holding frontline positions under overwhelming odds during the October 7 massacre to spearheading ground operations in Gaza and Lebanon. The brigade is distinguished by its high operational readiness, elite reconnaissance and engineering units, and a legacy of heroic sacrifice in the defense of Israel’s sovereignty.