IDF returning to capsule systems as COVID-19 numbers continue to rise
Nearly 70 troops carrying virus, another 3,170 service members in quarantine
With the number of coronavirus patients in the IDF increasing significantly over the last week, the military will be stepping up its restrictions for soldiers.
IDF Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Hidai Zilberman said that due to the increased number of infections across Israel and within the IDF, troops will be returning to working in capsule systems.
Each commander will determine the best method to enforce social distancing according to each unit’s makeup and will decide which way works best to minimize contact between capsules. In closed units, soldiers who return from furloughs will work in a “company capsule system” for five days before returning to their battalion to limit exposure to a large number of people.
According to a report by KAN, the commander of Nevatim air base ordered all troops to return to working in capsule systems after five career officers who live on the base were found to be carrying the virus. The commander also ordered for widescale tests to rule out further infection of other troops on the base. Additionally, all kindergartens and other living facilities on the base were closed, except for dining rooms.
Though troops will not be ordered to remain on base like they were at the beginning of the outbreak, “we want troops to be responsible,” Zilberman said. Soldiers who are on furlough will be allowed to gather and enjoy themselves outdoors but are asked by the military to refrain from large gatherings in indoor spaces like clubs.
Troops who return from furloughs will nonetheless be required to prepare for a month’s stay at the bases should the numbers continue to increase.
The military will also enforce a combination of social distancing, personal hygiene and the wearing of masks to prevent the disease from spreading in military units.
Troops will be ordered to keep a distance of two meters between each other at all times and a total of 10 people will be able to attend meetings. A maximum of 50 troops will be able to gather in enclosed areas and a total of 100 soldiers will be allowed to gather in outdoor areas. A maximum of 100 people will be allowed into cafeterias, with exceptions allowing for a maximum of 250 people.
While train service resumed on Monday after three months of closure, troops are not allowed to take trains to prevent a large number of passengers gathering in the cars. Troops will be allowed to take other forms of public transportation.
Zilberman also said the IDF is continuing to run five coronavirus facilities – two for quarantining individuals and three others for coronavirus patients. Another facility is expected to open in the Galilee for the ultra-Orthodox population. In addition, 100 paramedics have been assigned to the Health
Ministry to help carry out tests.
The Home Front Command, which has called up 130 reservists, is active in assisting the Bedouin community, which has been hit hard by the second wave and has conducted more than 1,200 training and information sessions in more than 110 schools.
The number of soldiers with COVID-19 on Monday was 69. All are in light condition. Another 3,170 service members are in quarantine, compared to 350 at the beginning of June. It does not affect the military’s operational effectiveness.
Several officers on the General Staff also entered quarantine, including head of the C4I & Cyber Defense Directorate Maj.-Gen. Lior Carmeli, incoming-Central Command head Maj-Gen. Tamir Yadai, Southern Command head Maj-Gen. Herzi Halevi, Gaza Division Commander Brig.-Gen. Eliezer Toledano and 80th Division Commander Brig.-Gen. Gur Schriebmann. All will return to work on Tuesday.