The IDF cleans for Passover c
The IDF cleans for Passover cIDF Spokesperson's Unit

The IDF's Chief Rabbinate announced that its annual "Passover Operation" has successfully eliminated all chametz at every military base in Israel.

On Wednesday, thousands of reservists, soldiers, and volunteers descended upon IDF bases across the country in over to make the kitchens kosher for Passover. The operation is one of the most intensive projects run by the rabbinate, as it must clean thousands of kitchens within a 24-hour period.

"Preparations for Pesach begin after Hanukkah in preparation for the comprehensive training program," related Captain Roy Suissa, an IDF rabbi serving on the Egyptian border.

"During the month of Adar, discussions and meetings are held and the logistic equipment is transported, led and guided by the Rabbi of the Southern Command and of the Division," continued Suissa.

"We need to be stringent about every detail, both small and large, such as where the people who are making the bases kosher will sleep to how the people leading the seder at a remote outpost will arrive there."

For Gaza Division Rabbi Adiel Alexassi, this Passover brings extra challenges, as large numbers of IDF troops will be missing the traditional Passover Seder in order to counter the masses of Gazans that plan on flooding the border. "We have arranged in advance to organize a large number of matzos and personal order kits for those who will not be able to participate in the seder night due to activity and operational missions," said Rabbi Alexassi.

The IDF views ridding its bases of chametz as a high priority, and forbids soldiers from possessing any chametz on base, even in their personal belongings. The Chief Disciplinary Officer commonly inspects all of the barracks the evening before Passover in order to ensure that no chametz is found on the premises, and the Manpower Directorate calls up thousands of religious reservists in order for them to assist with making the kitchens kosher.