The Netflix television series Fauda is based on the Duvdevan Unit, an elite special operations force of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Fauda focuses on a fictional Israeli elite unit, but its inspiration is directly drawn from the real-life Duvdevan Unit. This connection provides a strong sense of authenticity to the series, particularly given the background of its co-creator.
The Duvdevan Unit Explained
The Duvdevan Unit (Hebrew: יחידת דובדבן, lit. "Cherry Unit") is a commando unit within the Israel Defense Forces' Commando Brigade. Established in June 1986, it is renowned for its covert operations, often involving disguises and deep undercover work.
Key characteristics and roles of the Duvdevan Unit include:
- Undercover Operations: Specializing in undercover operations in urban areas, particularly in the West Bank.
- Counter-terrorism: Conducting counter-terrorism missions, arrests of wanted individuals, and complex intelligence-gathering operations.
- Disguise: Its operatives often blend in with the local Arab population, making them highly effective in infiltration and surprise arrests.
- Direct Action: Engaging in direct combat and close-quarters battle.
For more information on this distinguished unit, you can refer to its Wikipedia page.
Connection to Fauda's Creators
The authenticity of Fauda is significantly bolstered by the personal experience of its co-creator, Lior Raz. Raz, who also stars as the lead character Doron Kavillio, formerly served in the Duvdevan Unit. This direct experience allowed him and co-creator Avi Issacharoff to infuse the series with realistic scenarios, operational details, and the psychological complexities faced by such operatives.
The series accurately portrays the challenges, intense action, and moral ambiguities often associated with undercover counter-terrorism operations, reflecting the practical insights derived from Raz's service.
