Mista’arvim—Israel’s Undercover Guardians
A terrorist who launched Molotov cocktails at an IDF guard post was arrested by Mista’arvim, Israel’s undercover counter-terrorism units, “at the entrance to the Shuafat refugee camp on Tuesday night,” worldisraelnews.com reported. After the terrorist threw the Molotov cocktail, Mista’arvim undercover operatives jumped out of their vehicle, pursued him, and tackled him to the ground. The 17-year-old suspect was questioned and will be brought to court. The incident was captured on camera and edited impressively, as it ended up resembling a scene from the Israel TV series Fauda. “This is a very complex activity that combines advanced operational capabilities, patience on the part of the fighters who have been operating for a long time, and determination, which led in the end to the arrest of the suspect and the success of the mission,” police said.
The Mista’arvim truly do seem like something out of a movie. They blend into the Palestinian populace, often altering their appearance with wigs, makeup, or other means, and they speak, gesture, and operate just like Palestinians. The operatives then join the Palestinians when they plan to protest violently or otherwise attack the IDF. When the attacks start, they reveal themselves by subduing and arresting as many surrounding terrorists as they can, effectively handling terroristic threats from the inside to keep Israel safe. Their incredible work is bittersweet—it’s an encouraging reminder that Israel has highly talented and qualified defenses, but the fact that such a force is necessary is also a reminder that the IDF faces almost constant threats and attacks. This instance of God using the Mista’arvim to protect His Chosen People and their land assures us that He is protecting Israel just as much now as He always has.
