“Better Than Any Helmet, Drone or Whatever” — Padan Elected FIDF CEO

FIDF’s new CEO once dismissed urgent equipment pleas from IDF soldiers.

As Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan takes over as CEO of Friends of the IDF (FIDF), he presents himself as the leader necessary to guide the organization through a challenging period. His appointment arrives at a moment of significant uncertainty, with FIDF urgently needing someone capable of restoring trust and accountability. Yet, Padan’s own public comments about IDF equipment shortages raise serious doubts about his ability to fulfill this role.

Padan’s first statement as CEO strongly reaffirms FIDF’s core mission of supporting Israel's soldiers. However, his previous remarks cast a shadow over these assurances. On October 18, 2023, in response to urgent requests from soldiers for critical supplies, Padan dismissed these pleas as "noise." He stated, “instead of helping, they are disturbing, they are stealing the time that the leadership doesn't have,” suggesting that only the official FIDF communications represented the real needs of IDF soldiers. This dismissal seemed at odds with the direct, urgent appeals from soldiers on the ground.

In another instance, Padan controversially claimed that the "spiritual support" provided by FIDF is "the best ammunition you can send to Israel, better than any helmet, any drone or whatever.” Such a statement starkly contrasts with the immediate, life-saving equipment needs voiced repeatedly by frontline soldiers.

Despite these problematic comments, Padan pledges meaningful reforms within the organization, promising clearer management structures, increased transparency, and enhanced regional collaboration. His commitment to incorporating insights from regional teams to align organizational strategy with actual needs suggests potential improvements. Yet, without concrete steps or clear timelines, these promises remain untested.

Padan has also emphasized FIDF’s exclusive partnership with the IDF as central to restoring donor confidence, a vital strategic move amidst questions regarding financial accountability. However, rebuilding trust goes beyond declarations. It demands visible integrity, rigorous financial transparency, and genuine responsiveness to the needs of soldiers and donors alike.

FIDF continues to face scrutiny over financial management and the authenticity of its support for soldiers. Padan’s effectiveness as CEO will largely hinge on his ability to address past criticisms and demonstrate a genuine understanding of the soldiers' immediate needs. To regain credibility, he must move beyond words and provide clear evidence of substantial reform.

As Nadav Padan begins his leadership, FIDF is at a critical juncture. Whether he can successfully navigate the organization through these troubled waters depends entirely on his actions and tangible results. Soldiers, donors, and stakeholders are watching closely, aware that genuine trust can only be rebuilt through concrete, measurable change.

Here is the announcement in full:

Dear FIDF Community,

Today I am stepping into a new chapter as FIDF CEO, and do so with a deep sense of responsibility and a steadfast belief in the mission that unites us: to stand by and care for Israel’s soldiers. To continue fulfilling that sacred mission—especially during this defining moment in Jewish history—I recognize that we must strengthen the very foundation of our organization and to restore your trust in us as stewards of your generosity.

Together with visionary leader Nily Falic at the helm as Interim Chairperson of the Board, our first priority is internal transformation, because a strong, unified FIDF is the cornerstone of our ability to serve both you, our supporters, and the soldiers of the IDF.

Working together we intend to build a clear and effective internal management structure, with defined roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines to ensure accountability and alignment. We will eliminate parallel and redundant management systems to ensure that each staff member has a supervisor to guide and empower them.

We will foster transparency and openness so that all stakeholders—staff, donors, partners, and the IDF—understand our priorities, actions, and direction.

Collaboration between our national teams and regional teams is essential. We will leverage the strength and wisdom of our regions as the “boots on the ground” who best understand our supporters’ needs by incorporating regional insights into national planning. That collaboration will drive informed decisions, harnessing the full power of our teams.

And while we pursue this transformation, one thing remains: our unwavering commitment to Israel’s soldiers. We will continue to uphold our core obligations to Israel’s soldiers and their families, even as we evolve. At the same time, we will proactively plan for the future, creating new initiatives and programs to meet the upcoming needs of our soldiers in the post-war landscape.

None of this is possible without our extraordinary staff. Every day, FIDF employees across the country and in Israel bring drive and dedication to our shared mission.

I reaffirm our exclusive partnership with the IDF. FIDF remains the one and only official organization in the United States authorized to raise charitable donations for Israel’s soldiers. That relationship is not just our responsibility, it is our privilege.

There is critical work ahead, and with your partnership, we can ensure every IDF soldier feels the strength of our support behind them.

Thank you for your trust and support of FIDF.

Sincerely,

Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan

Chief Executive Officer