Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi and Ehud Barak toasting to the new year. Photo: IDF Spokesperson IDF Spokesperson

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The General Staff Forum, lead by Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, and senior representatives of the defense system, lead by Defense Minister Ehud Barak and Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai, welcomed the coming of the new year and the Rosh Hashana holiday with a ceremonial toast at the Rabin Military Base in Tel Aviv.

“Behind us is a productive year with achievements in every field – on the ground, in the air and in the sea; in Intelligence, and in every support system,” the Defense Minister. “The IDF’s implemented objectives strengthen the country’s defense on a political level so that the country’s defense is secure.  This meeting with you, the entire General Staff, is very important in order to achieve proper collaboration and for the preparation of the State of Israel for the tests and challenges that meet us.”  The Defense Minister also recited a prayer for the return of the abducted soldier Gilad Shalit.

“This past year was one of many undertakings and many tests and challenges that we passed,” added Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi.  “In all modesty, we should be proud of our accomplishments this past year.  I want to thank my colleagues in the General Staff for their contributions, actions, cooperation in carrying such a burden.  Thank you to the defense system and the Defense Minister for the support and partnership throughout this journey.  I wish that the challenging year ahead of us will be a successful year, full of fulfilled objectives and preparations for challenges and the future.”