Sayeret

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SAYERET

Hebrew word used to designate "special reconnaissance units" of the Israeli army. In the Israel Defense Force there are three principal sayeret—north, central, and south—all directly linked to the general staff. The first, called "Sayeret-Shaked," was formed in the 1950s by Commander Amos Yarkoni, his real name being Abdul Majid, so as to track the fidaʾiyyun infiltrating through the Negev, coming from Jordan and Egypt. The "Sayeret-Matkal" was formed in 1964, placed under the command of Avraham Arnan. Through the years, and by reason its success, this unit became a veritable "action" service of the Israeli general staff, carrying out a number of assassinations against Palestinian leaders. Between 1970 and 1973, the "Sayeret-Matkal" was headed by Ehud Barak, future prime minister. Finally the "Sayeret-Egoz," formed in 1970, was responsible for special operations in the northern sector of Israel, particularly on the border with Lebanon.

SEE ALSO Barak, Ehud.