Muslim IDF Officer 'Captain Ella' Named New Arabic Spokesperson

In a historic appointment that reflects both diversity and professionalism within Israel’s defense establishment, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Major Ella Waweya widely known as “Captain Ella” will serve as the military’s next Arabic-language spokesperson. She replaces Col. Avichay Adraee, who steps down after nearly 20 years in the high-profile role.

Waweya, 36, will be promoted to lieutenant colonel upon assuming the position, becoming the highest-ranking Muslim officer currently serving in the IDF. Born in Kalansuwa, a Muslim Arab town in central Israel, Waweya has been part of the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit since 2013, most recently heading its Arabic media desk.

The move marks a generational shift in the IDF’s Arabic-language outreach. Adraee, who became a well-known figure across Arabic media in the region, helped shape the IDF’s messaging to audiences in neighboring states, often appearing on major outlets and social platforms to counter hostile narratives and deliver updates during military operations.

Now, the torch passes to Waweya, whose rise in the military has been marked by both talent and courage. As a Muslim Arab woman serving in a senior IDF communications role, she has faced both admiration and criticism. Yet her professionalism and commitment have earned respect across military and media circles alike.

While reports of Adraee’s impending retirement surfaced in late 2023, there had been no fixed timeline for his departure until now. Army Radio’s Doron Kadosh previously noted ongoing discussions about his replacement between Adraee and IDF Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin.

Waweya’s appointment is more than a personnel change it’s a powerful symbol of integration and identity in a region often defined by division. Her new role will involve leading Arabic-language communication for the IDF across traditional and digital platforms, especially at a time of heightened regional tensions and information warfare.

As Lt.-Col. Waweya steps into the spotlight, her promotion signals to the region and the world that Israel is a nation where minorities can serve, lead, and represent with pride.

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