‘Israeli’ army spokesperson Avichay Adraee retires

Several Hebrew outlets announced that Colonel Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the ‘Israeli’ army, is preparing to retire, marking the end of one of the most recognizable and controversial media figures representing the Israeli Occupation in the Arab world.

Adraee, who became a familiar face across the region, played a key role in what the army calls its “operational media strategy,” especially following the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023.

Sources revealed that his mission focused on portraying ‘Israel’ as complying with international law, often by directing messages to civilian populations, efforts that critics described as spreading misinformation.

Throughout his tenure, Adraee frequently published evacuation maps and warnings ahead of strikes in Gaza and Lebanon, which the army framed as “informational outreach.” However, many in the Arab world viewed these messages as part of a psychological warfare campaign and an attempt to justify bombardment, displacement, and civilian casualties.

His activities were not limited to Palestine and Lebanon. At times, Adraee addressed audiences in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and Iran, which is a move seen by viewers as an effort to expand 'Israel's' regional media presence. Most, however, dismissed him as nothing more than a propaganda tool.

As Adraee prepares to leave his post, reports indicate that the army has already begun searching for his successor to head its Arabic-language media operations. Maariv noted that three candidates are currently undergoing evaluations, including on-camera performance tests, to fill the position.