Israeli Border Police will train 320 women as recruits in the coming weeks, a record-breaking number of female officers for the force.
Senior corps officials told Israel Hayom the influx will create the first majority-female companies in the Border Police's history, with women in 65 percent of officer positions.
The increased interest in defending Israel’s border comes at a time when it is urgently needed. During the Gaza crisis in May, reports emerged of military contraband being seized before getting into the hands of Hamas-backed militants. The Jewish state has also fended off attacks from drones on its northern border.
The Border Police's popularity is rising. Data show 90 percent of Israeli recruits named the force a "high priority" as they decide assignments. For every 10 individuals who want a spot in the patrol, only one spot is available.
Border Police commissioner Amir Cohen applauded the shift in border patrol policy, telling recruits he hopes for an even stronger force going forward.
"I am proud to be in charge of the corps that is setting an example to all of society by integrating and training female officers," Cohen said. "From now on, the responsibility lies on you, that of being a Border Police officer. May you carry it with pride until the end of your training and in your future service."
The first of the two majority-female companies of border officers will begin operations as soon as Aug. 21 after completing training.