Breaking Barriers: Major Ella Waweya to Become IDF's First Muslim Arab Woman Spokesperson

Major Ella Waweya is set to become the Israel Defense Forces' next Arabic-language spokesperson, succeeding Col. Avichay Adraee. Waweya, the first Muslim Arab woman officer in the unit, will be promoted to lieutenant colonel. Her appointment signifies a pivotal shift in the military's communications leadership.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 03-02-2026 21:49 IST | Created: 03-02-2026 21:49 IST
Breaking Barriers: Major Ella Waweya to Become IDF's First Muslim Arab Woman Spokesperson
Representative Image (Photo/Reuters). Image Credit: ANI
  • Country:
  • Israel

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is set to appoint Major Ella Waweya as its next Arabic-language spokesperson, succeeding the long-serving Col. Avichay Adraee. This marks a significant leadership transition in one of the army's most influential communication roles.

Waweya, 36, hailing from Qalanswa in central Israel, is recognized as the first Muslim Arab woman to become an officer in the IDF Spokesperson's Unit. Her appointment stands out in an institution where Arab citizens are not obligated to serve, with few choosing to enlist.

In her role, she has overseen Arabic-language digital communications and is noted for her online presence as 'Captain Ella'. Her appointment reflects a noteworthy development in the military's engagement with Arabic-speaking audiences.

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