Lubavitch Chassid and journalist Mendy Rizel has been appointed by the IDF to head a desk dedicated to the Chareidi community, a specialized unit tasked with coordinating guidance, outreach, and communications for Chareidi citizens during wartime.

The desk ensures that critical, life-saving instructions reach the community in ways suited to their needs, including coordinating with local leadership and promoting proper civil behavior under emergency conditions.

The appointment comes with the launch of Operation “Epic Fury” and lessons learned from Operation “Rising Lion.” Southern District Commander Brigadier General Asher Banishti established the desk, staffed by officers and reservists from the Chareidi sector, to address the community’s specific wartime needs.

The Southern District includes many cities where the Chareidi population constitutes a significant portion of residents. These communities often consume internal communications differently than the general public, making it essential to provide clear, timely, and accessible instructions during emergencies and conflict situations.

At the head of the desk is Senior Academic Officer (KA”B) Mendy Rizel, who has served in the Home Front Command reserves for five years and works professionally in communications, bringing both operational experience and a deep understanding of how to communicate effectively with the Chareidi community.

“Our goal is to reach every citizen in an appropriate manner, in the name of the sacred mission of saving lives”, Brig. Gen. Banishti said. “To this end, we have successfully established a desk for the Chareidi community in the south under our responsibility, and I commend this effort.”

The new desk represents a focused effort by the IDF to ensure that all citizens, including those in communities with unique communication needs, are fully informed and supported during wartime.