The 55th Paratroopers Brigade, known as "the spearhead," was previously referred to as Brigade 247 and later Brigade 623. It is a reserve paratroopers brigade that belongs to the 98th Division of the Israel Defense Forces and consists of five battalions.
#### History
The brigade was established in 1966 and has participated over the years in several IDF operations, including the Battle of Ammunition Hill during the 1967 War, the Operation of the Bravehearted during the October War (under the name Brigade 247), the 1982 Lebanon War, and the 2006 Lebanon War. The 55th Brigade is particularly well-known for being the first Israeli brigade to enter the Old City of Jerusalem in 1967 and the first to cross the Suez Canal in 1973.
Israel chose to withdraw this brigade after it suffered a heavy blow due to Hamas detonating buildings where the battalion was stationed, resulting in a significant loss of officers at that time.
#### Military Statement
The Israeli military justified the withdrawal of the 55th Brigade by stating: "It has completed its missions in the area and has been replaced by other units."
