Israel Mandates Arabic and Islamic Studies for Military Intelligence Personnel

Israel Mandates Arabic and Islamic Studies for Military Intelligence Personnel
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In a strategic move following the intelligence shortcomings revealed by the October 7 Hamas attack, Israel’s Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN) has introduced mandatory Arabic and Islamic studies for all its officers and soldiers, regardless of their specialization, Türkiye Today reported.

The directive, issued by AMAN chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder, allegedly aims to address critical cultural and linguistic gaps in intelligence operations.

Under the new policy, all military intelligence personnel will undergo compulsory training in Islamic studies and Arabic language. Basic Arabic courses will be mandatory across all ranks, with long-term goals focusing on achieving fluency and a deeper understanding of Islamic thought among officers. A new educational division within AMAN will be established to develop structured curricula in these areas.

By next year, all intelligence staff will begin Islamic education, with at least half also receiving Arabic training. The objective is said to be for officers to achieve fluency in Arabic and a comprehensive understanding of Islamic culture within a few years. Additionally, AMAN plans to reopen the Telem Department, previously closed due to budget cuts, to promote Middle Eastern studies in Israeli schools.

New courses focusing on regional dialects, such as Yemeni and Iraqi Arabic, will also be introduced to enhance the ability of personnel to interpret diverse sources and communications in the field.