Bikini clad soldiers could be a reality possibly only in Israel. Compulsory military service of two years after reaching 18 is the common law on the prowl. The army contingent has one-third of the feminine force, and 50 per cent of its officers, making the Israel Defence Forces one of the most gender-equal units in the world. Moreover, such similar scenes are quite common on the beaches of Tel Aviv. However, this one gained prominence as it was posted on the internet on a social networking site, becoming a prominent point for discussions.

Many gave weird comments over the issue. Some said that the two beauties on guard were reluctant to hand over the weapons to the armor depot because of the cumbersome procedures. Others felt that probably the duo had no time to do so. Some more felt that as the weapons are necessary to have it in the near vicinity, the duo had them on themselves. As in Israel, losing a weapon could land the officer in a military prison.

Many say that it is not a stray incident. In a bid to promote tourism, in 2007,  Israel's Foreign Ministry backed a public relations campaign out of its consulate in New York showing former female soldiers in minimal wear on its sunny beaches. 'We want to make people in the world to see Israel through our glasses,' said Aviv Shiron, Deputy Director General for Media and Public Affairs in the Israeli Foreign Ministry.   (With inputs from internet- AW AarKay)