Following the Haiti earthquake in 2010, an IDF field hospital treated over 1,100 patients and performed dozens of life-saving surgeries.
By Hezy Laing
The IDF has long been recognized not only for their military prowess but also for their extraordinary humanitarian outreach across the globe.
Over the decades, the IDF has conducted dozens of foreign rescue and recovery missions, often arriving first on the scene of natural disasters and crises.
Here are five of the most remarkable and impactful operations that exemplify Israel’s commitment to saving lives beyond its borders:
1. Earthquake Relief in Greece (1953)
In one of its earliest humanitarian missions, the IDF responded to a devastating earthquake in the Ionian Islands of Greece that claimed over 1,000 lives. Israeli Navy ships, already in the area for exercises, quickly pivoted to provide medical aid and logistical support to survivors. This mission laid the foundation for Israel’s future global rescue efforts.
2. Mexico City Earthquake (1985)
After a series of powerful earthquakes struck Mexico City, killing over 10,000 people, the IDF mobilized a delegation of 350 reservists within three days. The team included medical personnel and search-and-rescue experts who worked tirelessly to locate survivors and provide emergency care. Their rapid deployment and professionalism earned international praise.
3. Armenia Earthquake (1988)
When a catastrophic earthquake hit Gyumri (formerly Leninakan), killing nearly 60,000 people, the IDF sent rescue workers and medical teams to assist. Despite freezing conditions and widespread devastation, the Israeli team managed to rescue 14 people and provide critical aid to hundreds more.
4. Haiti Earthquake (2010)
Following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated Port-au-Prince, the IDF dispatched one of the most advanced field hospitals ever deployed in a disaster zone. Equipped with surgical units, imaging technology, and neonatal care, the hospital treated over 1,100 patients and performed dozens of life-saving surgeries. The mission became a global benchmark for rapid medical response.
5. Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines (2013)
After one of the strongest typhoons ever recorded struck the Philippines, the IDF sent a humanitarian delegation that included doctors, nurses, and logistics experts. They set up a field hospital in the city of Bogo, providing medical care to hundreds of injured residents and helping restore basic health services.
These missions reflect the IDF’s ethos: that human life transcends borders.
Whether responding to earthquakes, typhoons, or terror attacks, Israel’s soldiers and medics have consistently shown that compassion and courage can go hand in hand.
