Why the IDF doesn't wear camouflage | WATCH

The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) typically does not wear traditional camouflage uniforms for several reasons:

1. Operational Environment

Israel's main areas of operation, urban environments, desert terrain, and rocky hillsides, don’t always benefit from standard camouflage patterns. In urban warfare, which dominates IDF combat (e.g., Gaza, Jenin, or southern Lebanon towns), camouflage has limited effectiveness. Olive drab or neutral green fatigues are often better suited for blending into shadowy, concrete-heavy environments.

2. Uniform Simplicity and Logistics

The IDF prioritizes simplicity, standardization, and cost-efficiency. Olive green uniforms are cheaper, easier to mass-produce, and reduce logistical complexity. Since Israel relies on rapid mobilization of large reserve forces, having one consistent uniform style simplifies equipping and training.

3. Identification and Symbolism

The IDF places strong emphasis on discipline, visibility, and moral authority. Wearing clearly identifiable uniforms in populated areas helps distinguish soldiers from irregular combatants, which matters under international law. Camouflage, which may resemble non-state actors, could blur this distinction in the eyes of civilians or international observers.

4. There’s a long tradition in the IDF of wearing olive drab. It’s a symbol of Israeli resilience and continuity since 1948. Camouflage has historically been associated with other armies, and the IDF has cultivated its own identity.

The IDF doesn't use traditional camouflage as a standard due to the urban focus of its combat, cost-efficiency, ease of identification, and historical uniform culture. But special forces and units in high-risk combat missions (e.g., Sayeret Matkal, Maglan, Duvdevan) often wear camouflage or specialized gear during operations—especially in forest, mountainous, or cross-border environments like Lebanon or Syria.

VIDEO CREDIT: ONE NATION, ONE FAMILY ON INSTAGRAM