Smotrich Claims IDF Chief of Staff Demanded Harsh Punishment for Givaty Soldiers

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich revealed that within the Givaty Brigade, there was a desire to close the case of soldiers who refused to board a Namer armored personnel carrier. However, the IDF Chief of Staff insisted on severe punishment for those involved. Smotrich stated that all parties within the Givaty Brigade understood the soldiers were good fighters and wanted to resolve the issue internally. He indicated that a directive from "somewhere high up in the General Staff" pushed for harsh penalties, confirming it was the Chief of Staff when asked.

Smotrich expressed concern that the decision to punish the soldiers harshly could cause significant damage. He noted that 16 soldiers were sentenced to actual imprisonment, with five receiving 10 days in military prison and 11 receiving five days. The incident involved soldiers refusing to board a Namer APC where a female paramedic was present, reportedly against joint service orders.

Earlier, Smotrich had supported the soldiers from the Rotem Battalion, vowing to seek answers from the defense establishment regarding their punishment. He affirmed his backing for the Givaty soldiers who he said insisted on their right and duty to serve in the IDF while upholding their values and faith, and adhering to proper integration orders. He mentioned that rabbis and directors from the Hesder Yeshiva Association, who examined the matter, fully supported the soldiers' decision.

Smotrich added that he had hoped the IDF would reconsider, but as a leader of Religious Zionism, he could not stand by idly and would demand answers. He concluded by lamenting that some in the IDF chose a misguided judgment to confront the most serving and contributing segment of the public, which he believes will only cause damage and erode public trust in the IDF.