Marcel Serr
Israel’s navy is the smallest branch of the Israel Defense Forces. However, the need to protect Israel’s recently-established gas rigs in the Mediterranean against missile and terrorist attacks presents the Israeli navy with a profound challenge.
In addition, the Israeli submarine fleet is of tremendous strategic importance—particularly regarding a possible Iranian military nuclear program. Thus, Israel’s navy plays a vital role for Jerusalem’s security.
Almost 10,000 men and women serve in Israel’s navy under the command of Maj. Gen. Eli Sharvit. Traditionally, coastal security is one of the naval forces’ primary tasks. This includes protecting Israeli waters from enemy infiltration and preventing the smuggling of weapons.
The navy operates in two separate seas — the Mediterranean with major bases in Haifa and Ashdod and the Gulf of Aqaba with a base in Eilat. The fastest connection by far between both theaters is the Suez Canal. Since the peace accord between Israel and Egypt in 1979, it has been technically possible for Israeli military ships to pass through the canal. However, it is politically a very delicate situation.
http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/could-israels-navy-start-nuclear-war-22133
