Metzada unit

The Metzada Unit ( Hebrew יחידת מצדה) is an Israeli special unit for the rescue of hostages in the event of hostage-taking in Israeli prisons and prisoner transports . She is one of five hostage rescue teams in Israel. The name comes from Masada ( Hebrew מצדה Mezadá "fortress") back.

The unit operates nationwide and reports directly to the head of the Israel Prison Service (IPS). Since 2006, Metzada has also been subordinate to the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (Zahal) and is involved in their missions, subject to the approval of the IPS commissioner. The Metzada unit specializes in the use of non-lethal weapons . The unit's instructors advise and support the entire Israel Defense Forces on this issue.

The selection process is very strict and includes the examination of physical and psychological characteristics. Only one percent of applicants pass the entrance exam.

The Metzada unit consists of two departments. The intervention department specializes in taking prison cells or transport vehicles. The break-in department gains entry by using explosives and breaking open heavy prison doors. Care is taken to ensure that people are not harmed.

See also

Other hostage rescue units:

• Sajeret Matkal
• Schajetet 13
• LOTAR Eilat
• JAMAM

Individual evidence

1. ^ "Masada" Israel Prison Service's takeover unit, " Israel Homeland Security. Retrieved November 25, 2018.,
2. ↑ Metzada Unit Israel Prison Service, Official Website (Hebrew). Retrieved November 25, 2018.