About Us
Established in Israel in 2001
Israeli tactical gear, backed by experience and personal service
ZAHAL connects customers around the world with Israeli-made tactical equipment, professional accessories and hard-to-find IDF products. What began as a family business has grown into an international store serving professionals, collectors, enthusiasts and supporters of Israel.
Our mission
Quality products and service customers can rely on
ZAHAL was created to make high-quality Israeli tactical products available to customers far beyond Israel. From the beginning, our goal has been simple: offer a strong selection of authentic products at competitive prices while providing fast, knowledgeable and personal support.
We understand that customers have many stores to choose from. That is why we believe the purchasing experience matters just as much as the merchandise. Our team works to provide clear information, reliable order handling and practical assistance before and after a purchase.
The founder
From Israel’s submarine service to an international business
Uri Dotan-Bochner
ZAHAL was founded by Uri Dotan-Bochner, a retired Israeli submariner. Uri saw an opportunity to offer a broad range of products made in Israel for the IDF and police to customers in distant markets abroad.
After leaving his desk job in Jerusalem, Uri established the online business together with his wife, Irit, who had served in the Israeli Air Force. His product knowledge, longstanding relationships and familiarity with the Israeli defense community helped ZAHAL build a distinctive selection of tactical products, accessories and military surplus.
Over time, ZAHAL expanded carefully and served customers across the world. The family tradition continues through Uri’s younger son, Yoav, who followed his father into Israel’s submarine service and now leads the business.
A family connected to Israel’s security
Uri’s father, Michael Bochner, fought as a partisan against the Nazis in the mountains of Serbia during the Second World War. After the war and Israel’s War of Independence, he joined the young Israeli Police.
Michael later retired with the rank of Brigadier General and remained active in service to the country well into later life. He passed away in December 2008 at the age of 84. His commitment to Israel became an important part of the family’s history and values.
Family archive
Photographs from the Dotan family album
A selection of historical family photographs documenting military service, family life and the story behind ZAHAL.
Behind the scenes
Daily life at ZAHAL
A look inside the office and the people working behind the store.
Need assistance?
Our team is here to help
Have a question about an order, product compatibility, shipping or availability? Use our Customer Service form and include your order number when applicable.