Soldiers Complain of Rats in Barracks, Army Promises Pest Control

Female soldiers undergoing the observer commander course at the Tzayrim training base have reported an infestation of rats in their living quarters over the past few days. The rodents have been seen roaming the rooms, climbing onto beds, and among personal belongings, causing distress among the soldiers.

One soldier's father described the situation to ynet and "Yedioth Ahronoth," stating that repeated appeals to the staff had gone unaddressed, with soldiers being told to show "maturity and patience." He recounted that the rats were initially confined to the general area but had escalated to being on beds and personal items. Despite initial assurances that a trapper would be called, soldiers were later told the IDF was not obligated to provide one. The father added that his daughter, who has dietary restrictions and brings dry food from home, now fears approaching her provisions due to the rats.

He criticized the staff's response, citing an instance where a soldier found a rat among her belongings and was told to simply close the cupboard door. "This is despicable conduct," he stated, expressing disbelief that people could be expected to live in such conditions. He noted that soldiers had approached their squad leader, platoon commander, and company commander, but were allegedly dismissed.

The IDF Spokesperson's Unit responded, confirming that soldiers had complained about a rat in the female barracks. They stated that upon receiving the report, the issue was immediately investigated, and initial measures for trapping were provided. The IDF confirmed that a team from the Army Health Branch, along with an IDF exterminator, would visit the base on the day of the report to address the problem.