Israel's home front is prepared for the Iranian threat, IDF colonel stresses

 Amid escalating tensions with Iran and growing concerns over threats to Israel’s home front, Col. (res.) Nir Neuman says Israel is ready to face Tehran's threat.

“I say first of all that in terms of fortification, we are prepared. We are trained to respond in the event of an incident," Neuman said in a Monday interview with Maariv's podcast. "Ultimately, any citizen who knows where to go to a protected space and receives sufficient warning will be protected, even against the most severe threats that may reach us.”

Neuman currently serves as the commander of the Rishon Lezion Local Emergency Unit in the Home Front Command and heads the firefighting system at Israel Electric Corporation.

'There is a threat to strategic facilities, population centers'

Discussing the potential for a nationwide blackout due to attacks on Israel Electric Corporation facilities, Neuman explained, “As part of system resilience and supply reliability for residents, we have very high preparedness. We have a firefighting and rescue unit of the highest level, one that would not shame a reserve battalion. Our role is to support employees and return to the work cycle as quickly as possible to ensure supply reliability.”

Neuman noted that during attempts to strike Israel Electric Corporation facilities during the Israel-Hamas War, the corporation's headquarters were targeted by Israel's enemies.

"Attempts of one kind or another, insofar as they occurred, were thwarted. We mainly dealt with interception debris of various kinds, without significant damage,” he said.

He also mentioned that the corporation has learned from past attempts and has fortified critical power-generation assets to protect them. "Those facilities were fortified with protection that will preserve them and prevent damage,” he added.

Regarding the current Iranian threat and the public's concern, Neuman acknowledged the readiness of the reservists, stating, “The reservists, and I must also speak positively about my liaison unit, the district, and the battalions, are serious people. Some returned from abroad when needed. In times of uncertainty, they are present and ready."

Neuman further explained that, to maintain operational readiness, “Beyond the battalions, in many municipalities, there are municipal first response units trained as part of rescue teams. We are trained. The commanders know one another and constantly hold professional meetings. When everyone is trained and there is personal familiarity, each person knows their sector and professional strengths. Cooperation is carried out in an excellent manner.”

He added that the locations where rescue and extraction battalions assemble are within the city, allowing access to multiple areas. “Those battalions are a professional force equipped with all necessary tools, food, and, if needed, the ability to remain in those locations for extended periods.”

'October 7 event must push us out of box'

Speaking about serving in the wake of the IDF's failures during the Hamas-led massacres on October 7, 2023, Neuman recalled that both soldiers and reservists felt ashamed to wear their uniforms.

“We all felt discomfort in those moments wearing the uniform,” Neuman recalled.

Neuman reflected on the beginning of the massacre, saying, “My youngest daughter stayed alone at home, in the most protected place there is, because our home has no safe room." 

At the time, his wife and one child were abroad, and he and his older daughter had to join the army to confront the threat. "My eldest daughter and I were scrambled: I went to the Dan District command center, and she went to the Binyamin Brigade as an operations officer,” he said.

"I am glad to say that over the past two years, we have returned to what we believe in and restored security for residents. But in those first moments, there is no doubt it was a disappointment.”

Neuman emphasized that the aftermath of the Hamas massacre should push Israel to think beyond routine patterns.

"The October 7 event must push us out of the box. We must understand that not only fixed and routine patterns are required, but creativity and sophisticated thinking as well. I think that today there is a better response and openness to creative thinking and new patterns. We must also listen to opinions that sometimes seem unusual."

'Resilience is our most important weapon'

Regarding the Iranian threat, Neuman stressed the importance of civilians preparing not only for themselves but also for others.

“It is important to distinguish between going to a safe room and going to assembly areas. Under a missile threat, we shelter in a safe room. Make sure all household members arrive and close the steel window properly.”

He also advised having access to basic emergency supplies.

“Have water, at least a six-pack, no need to overdo it. Emergency lighting and batteries, some dry food or canned goods. And most importantly, a first aid kit. Many injuries occur on the way to the safe room, and if someone is injured, it’s important to have a response inside so you do not need to go outside under fire.”

Concluding the interview, Neuman asserted, “Resilience is our most important weapon.