After operating for the first time since their establishment in Syria, Judea and Samaria, and the Gaza Strip, the fighters of the “Jonathan” Battalion of the Hasmoneans have deployed to another new sector. A few days after the outbreak of Operation “Lion’s Roar,” they entered intense operational activity – this time, in southern Lebanon.
“From the moment we completed our training, we were very eager for them to deploy us and for us to actually fight. You train for this for so long,” shares Staff Sergeant Sh’, a sniper in the battalion, about the feelings prior to the recent mission.
Throughout the maneuver, the “Jonathan” fighters operated in several areas in southern Lebanon. Among other things, they destroyed numerous Hezbollah terror infrastructures, located weapons and anti-tank missile depots, neutralized loaded rocket launchers aimed at Israeli territory, and even captured a terrorist from the Radwan force who was planning to attack IDF forces in the immediate future.
Staff Sergeant Sh’ describes one night when they entered as the first force for demolition missions around the outpost from which they operated in Lebanon. “At that time, we had an armored and intelligence force with us, who accompanied us in every neutralization we carried out,” he says. “We had already gained experience in previous sectors fighting alongside other corps, like Engineering, for example. They have the same goal in mind – and help us achieve our objectives.”
Alongside the operational activities, the brigade’s fighters and commanders managed to hold a Seder meal together, as is customary, on the eve of Passover, for which they had prepared extensively. “You are used to holding the Seder in your home, with your customs, in your comfort zone,” describes the sniper, “but this was a very special and unifying experience. We all thought about the fact that we are here, in the battalion, so that the rest of the citizens in the country can celebrate the holiday properly – and that gave us an amazing sense of mission.”
Indeed, the integration of tradition and combat in the brigade is carried out in full synchronization. “For example, the fighters’ schedule includes dedicated time for study. We all experience the operational load together, so this partnership is very helpful and supportive,” explains Major Sh’, a company commander in the battalion. “It’s not a simple challenge, but it’s a goal we’ve etched onto the Hasmoneans’ flag – and we strive greatly to uphold it and always improve.”
Going forward, the brigade’s fighters are expected to expand their operational area in the sector, while maintaining operational capabilities and without compromising their religious lifestyle in routine. “The spirit and brotherhood are our most special characteristic. We all know very well what we are fighting for, for whom, and in what way,” testifies Staff Sergeant Sh’.
“In the end, on the front lines of combat, we felt that the burden of proof was on us,” says the sniper proudly, adding, “But after we demonstrated our operational and professional level, I am sure we have clarified what we are truly capable of. In my opinion, our achievements in the last two months have provided ‘proof’ of the Hasmoneans’ high capabilities, and I am sure that in the near future, we will continue to prove ourselves.”