IDF Extends Equipment Return Campaign to November 16 as Collection Tops 300,000 Items

The IDF said on November 12 that it is extending its nationwide military equipment return campaign by two days, until November 16, after more than 300,000 items were handed back. The Technology and Logistics Directorate began the campaign on November 1, with 62 collection locations across the country. The returned material includes weapons, ammunition and military equipment taken out during regular or reserve service. The IDF's published breakdown lists 210 weapons and 3,800 stun grenades, fragmentation grenades, mortars and launchers. It also lists 8,700 uniform, equipment and textile items, 3,000 weapon accessories, 1,600 combat-equipment items including vests and helmets, and 430 medical-equipment items. During the campaign, people can hand back the equipment without identifying themselves and without prosecution for its unlawful removal, possession or carrying. The IDF said the campaign's success prompted the extension. It warned: "When the campaign ends, legal immunity will cease." Enforcement concerning the unlawful removal and possession of military equipment will then resume. The IDF directs people seeking further information to its website or the reservists' website, and to the service hotline at *6008. The hotline operates from 08:00 to 20:00 during the campaign.