Finance Minister Smotrich Backs Soldiers Refusing Gaza Patrol With Female Medic

Israeli Finance Minister and Defense Ministry official Bezalel Smotrich announced his support for 16 soldiers from the Givati Brigade's Rotem Battalion who were jailed for refusing to participate in an operational patrol in Gaza. The soldiers' refusal stemmed from the knowledge that a female paramedic would be accompanying them. Smotrich stated that he backs the soldiers' right to serve while upholding their beliefs and values, in accordance with proper integration policies.

The Rotem Battalion includes soldiers from Hesder Yeshivas, a program combining religious study with military service. Smotrich, who also chairs the Religious Zionism party, declared his intention to intervene in the matter, noting that the soldiers have the full backing of their Hesder Yeshiva rabbis and administrators. Five of the soldiers involved received a 10-day jail sentence, while 11 others were sentenced to five days.

Smotrich expressed disappointment that his intervention was necessary, stating, "As the leader of Religious Zionism, I cannot sit idly by and I will demand answers from the IDF." He criticized what he called a "misguided decision" by some within the IDF to confront a "most contributing and serving public" in a way that "will only cause damage and harm public trust in the IDF."

The IDF confirmed that the operational activity was canceled due to the soldiers' refusal. While their commanders agreed to proceed with the mission, the soldiers alone refused to participate. Despite explanations from their company commander about the mission's importance and urgency, and even a religious ruling from the brigade rabbi permitting them to go, the soldiers remained steadfast in their refusal.

According to a soldier from a parallel battalion composed of Haredi soldiers, the incident highlights a difficult transition for new recruits. "In training, everything is separate and defined, and when they arrive at the battalion, they get this slap in the face. Unfortunately, now they will also pay for it," the soldier commented.