IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi delivered his address at the service in which he also issued a warning to Israel's enemies.
"Even after dozens of years of struggle, we have still not lost our hope to live by your side in peace and mutual respect; but I don't recommend that anyone tests the strength and determination of the IDF," said Lt. Gen. Ashkenazi.
"Whoever wants to harm the citizens of the state will find that a determined army that responds with a harsh strike," he added.
"Here, in front of the Wailing Wall, I stand together with all of the IDF soldiers and salute all those who died in defense of our country," the IDF chief of general staff said.
"In this time, when speculations and allegations are being made about the moral code of the IDF following Operation Cast Lead, I would like to tell you about the sacrifices being made in fighting terrorism," said Ashkenazi. "The IDF is committed to saving human life and our enemies take advantage of our high morals when firing at us from within centers of civilian population."
Ashkenazi praised the IDF soldiers, saying that "as their commander I want to tell you - our advantage over our enemies is because of our soldiers; we can and should be proud of them."
He went on to pledge that "the moral and ethical code will continue to lead the IDF in its operations and efforts to defend the citizens of Israel."
