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IDF ‘shadow command’ was placed on standby in case Iran knocked out Israeli leadership

The secretive ‘Shadow General Staff’ was moved to a secret location ahead of the June 13 opening strike on Iran's nuclear program.

July 7, 2025 13:51
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The IDF established a 'Shadow Command' in case Israeli leaders were killed by Iranian strikes during the recent war (Image: Getty)

By

JC Reporter,

Jewish News Syndicate

1 min read

The IDF had an alternative "shadow command" standing by during the 12-day war with Iran to ensure operational continuity if a counter-attack from Tehran took out the military's command structure.

The "Shadow General Staff," headed by Deputy Chief of Staff Major General Tamir Yadai and staffed by generals in the reserves, was updated regarding the IDF attack plans and moved to a secret location ahead of the June 13 opening strike on Iran's nuclear program, Hebrew media reported on Monday.

The secretive team, which was disconnected from the IDF's regular communication infrastructure to prevent cyberattacks and physical intrusions of its base, was meant to be activated only in case of a complete loss of command, a scenario that did not materialise.

Ynet noted that some of the ballistic missiles and drones launched by the Islamic Republic over the course of the conflict targeted the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv.

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