AFINS’ mission is to strengthen the core foundations of Israeli society by assisting the elite soldiers and alumni of the Shayetet-13, the Israeli Navy SEALs.
AFINS About FAQ History of Firsts Our Programs Programs Overview 2022 Impact Report Version Bravo Leadership Board of Directors National Leadership Council Staff Events Wartime Impact Donate About FAQ History of Firsts Our Programs Programs Overview 2022 Impact Report Version Bravo Leadership Board of Directors National Leadership Council Staff Events Wartime Impact Donate American Friends of Israel Navy SEALs Each year, 8,000 young men try out and 40 or fewer are ultimately selected to serve in Shayetet-13 (“Unit 13”), the Israel Navy SEALs. Known as “men of silence,” these elite naval commandos fight the war between the wars, undertaking covert missions beyond Israel’s borders. They train for fourteen months months longer than nearly every other Israel Defense Forces unit and commit to at least six years and eight months of total service.They complete active-duty years behind their peers in beginning college and careers, with extraordinary maturity but often unclear direction. All have the qualities necessary to succeed in civilian life and serve Israel and the Jewish community in new ways, but many struggle with the identity shift from military elite to civilian anybody. Some have experienced trauma and loss.They do not admit injuries or ask for help outside of the brotherhood of the Israel Navy SEALs, so American Friends of Israel Navy SEALs (AFINS), a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and the Israel-based Atalef Foundation help from within.The unit is symbolized by the bat (atalef) because its members burst forth from the shadows into the light. We work to ensure that as they complete active service, these elite veterans emerge into the warm light of community and bright futures.For further reading, rare interviews with Shayetet-13:Interview with a Shayetet-13 reservist called to duty during the May 2021 conflict.Interview with the commander of Shayetet-13 on the occasion of the unit’s 70th anniversary, discussing the unit’s purpose, heritage and evolution. Our Programs Learn More Donate click here Join Our Mailing List Email Address Sign Up Thank you! Back To Top Home Our Programs Contact Us AFINS, PO Box 20080, New York, NY 10001, United [email protected] AFINS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Tax-ID 20-5916414Photo credits: Ziv Koren | Film credits: Eytan Nadel Cart (0) We're at war. Israel’s Navy SEALs are now leading in rooting out Hamas to ensure it will never again commit atrocities such as those of October 7th. The warriors and their families will need us more than ever in the weeks and months ahead. Donate Now