Yahav: The Bedouin Rescue Unit

The Bedouin Rescue Unit ("Yahav"), was formed several months ago under the auspices of Major General Yosef Mishlav, Commander of the Homefront, and Colonel Peretz Vazan, Commander of the Southern (Homefront) District. The Bedouin Rescue Unit is the first of its kind in the IDF.

The unit's mission is to act as a rescue unit serving the southern population and those under the jursidiction of the Southern (Homefront) District.

"In times of disaster," explained Lt. Col. Logassi, "it is easier for the Bedouin population to be aided by Arabic speakers like themselves."

He added, "For example, in the case of a conventional missile strike, the unit's job is to rescue people from the rubble. In the case of a non-conventional missile attack, the unit's job is to keep people as far away as possible from the impact spot."

It should be noted that during the recent Iraq war, "Yahav" was responsible for distributing gas masks to the Bedouin population.