Israeli Veteran Says 1973 War A 'Slap In The Face'

Avigdor Kahalani, a decorated Israeli veteran, vividly recalls the 1973 war between the Arab world and Israel, an event that caught Israel by surprise. The coordinated attack by Egypt and Syria on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, marked a turning point in Israeli history. At the outbreak of the war, Kahalani, then a 29-year-old lieutenant-colonel, was tasked with commanding the 77th tank battalion in the Golan Heights. Despite being severely wounded in the 1967 conflict, Kahalani had returned to active duty. The odds were against Israel as Syria possessed significantly more tanks, and their tanks were superior in quality. Against all odds, Kahalani's unit, along with the 7th Armoured Brigade, managed to halt the Syrian advance. After days of intense combat, the Syrians eventually retreated. Kahalani's leadership and heroism in this pivotal battle earned him Israel's highest military distinction, the Medal of Valour. His experience in the 1973 war was a harsh but necessary wake-up call for Israel, prompting a reevaluation of its military preparedness and a shift in its strategic thinking. In the aftermath of the war, Israel underwent a profound transformation, shedding the complacency that had followed its 1967 victory. The conflict led to a comprehensive review of Israel's military readiness and prompted high-profile resignations within the government and military leadership. It also marked the beginning of Israel's pursuit of advanced military technology, including systems like the Iron Dome missile defense. The Israeli veteran, reflecting on the lessons of history, emphasizes the ongoing existential threat posed by Iran. He hopes that Israel will continue to have courageous leadership in the face of future challenges, recognizing that the moment of truth may come in confronting Iran's nuclear ambitions.