As the Israel Defense Forces mobilize for what looks to be an imminent ground offensive to root-out Gaza-based terrorists, troops on the fronts lines were joined by a different kind of “tank.”

A group of Chabad activists traveled to the border with Gaza in their “Mitzvah Tank” – a truck loaded not with weapons or ammunition, but with holy items to provide spiritual and moral support to the soldiers who at any minute could be called into battle.

It’s a scene which has become increasingly common before major operations, as even otherwise secular soldiers line up to put on Tefilin, say prayers and thank their guests, who expressed their gratitude to the men and women risking their lives for the people of Israel.