Yiftah Ron-Tal holds a master’s degree in business administration from Bar-Ilan University and an LLB from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He is also a graduate of the Advanced Systemic Course at the National Security College.
In the business world, Ron-Tal served as Chairman of the Board of Migdal Insurance Company (2010–2021), and as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Israel Electric Corporation (IEC). At IEC, he promoted the natural gas revolution and the private production reform, which transferred about 30% of total electricity production into private hands. He championed educational, social, and national values; led the negotiation process of the settlement agreement with Egyptian gas companies; and oversaw the completion of the historic reform in Israel’s energy sector and at IEC, among other achievements.
Ron-Tal also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Maccabi Dent (2007–2013) and of the Israel Ports Company (2010–2013).
Major General (res.) Ron-Tal completed 32 years of service in the Israel Defense Forces between 1974 and 2006. He advanced through the entire operational command track in the Armored Corps and held a variety of senior command positions. Notable roles include Head of the IDF Ground Forces Headquarters (2000–2001) and Commander of the IDF Ground Forces (2001–2005), during a period of intensive operations against Palestinian terrorism.
Ron-Tal has also held several voluntary positions, including Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Pre-Military Preparatory Programs Council; member of the Samaria Ariel University Friends Association; member of the 2019 and 2020 National Drug Basket Committee; and Chairman of the Defense Minister’s Advisory Committee on the Appointment of the Galei Zahal Commander (2012 and 2017).