Zamir's Orders: Israeli Army Withdraws Chinese Cars from Officers Over Espionage Fears

Media reports revealed on Sunday that the Israeli Army (IDF) has begun withdrawing Chinese-made vehicles used by its officers, based on direct orders from Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir.

Reasons for the Decision and Implementation Steps

• Security Concerns: The newspaper "Israel Hayom" cited security agencies, stating the decision was made due to a "real concern about the leakage of sensitive information or espionage via the vehicles' systems."

• Escalating Step: This measure is an additional step in a policy aimed at limiting the use of Chinese vehicles, which were previously banned from entering military bases.

• Gradual Implementation: The withdrawal process will occur in two phases:

  • Phase One: Targets officers in confidential positions or those exposed to sensitive security information.

  • Phase Two: Will include all officers, and the campaign is expected to conclude by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

• Targeted Vehicles: The IDF estimates the operation will involve about 700 vehicles, mostly of the CHERY model, which are 7-seater cars granted to officers with large families.

Potential Espionage Mechanism and International Influence

• Technical Threat: Security sources explained that some Chinese vehicles are equipped with sophisticated systems including cameras, microphones, sensors, and communication technologies that transmit information to external servers, sometimes without the control of the user or the local importer.

• International Impact: The Israeli decision was also influenced by the approach of other countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, which have previously banned the use of Chinese vehicles in sensitive security areas.