IDF Updates Weapons Rules After Deadly Terror Attack Exposes Safety Flaws
Translated & summarized from Mignews by baba
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has updated its rules for carrying personal weapons and using chamber-blocking devices after a deadly terror attack on October 23rd exposed critical malfunctions. The changes, signed by Major General Yosef Panso, address delays caused by the blocking device, which must be removed before firing. The revised regulations link weapon-carrying status to operational needs and risk assessments, allowing for different readiness states based on the situation.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- IDF updated weapon carrying and chamber-blocking device rules after a deadly terror attack.
- The changes address malfunctions that caused delays for soldiers during the October 23rd attack.
- A journalistic investigation by Channel 14 revealed the technical issues with the blocking device.
- Major General Yosef Panso signed the new instructions for soldiers.
- The revised rules link weapon status to operational needs and risk assessments.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has revised its regulations for carrying personal weapons and using chamber-blocking devices following identified malfunctions during a recent deadly terrorist attack. The changes were formalized by Major General Yosef Panso, Commander of the Ground Forces, who signed new instructions detailing how soldiers should carry and use these devices. The directive comes after a journalistic investigation by Israel's Channel 14 revealed technical issues faced by soldiers during the attack at the Judea junction.
The chamber-blocking device, a plastic insert mandated by the IDF in 2014 to prevent accidental discharges, was found to pose a security risk in combat. The investigation highlighted that the device must be removed before the weapon can be cocked and fired, leading to delays. During the junction attack, two soldiers experienced these delays because the blocker remained in the chamber. One soldier managed to clear the malfunction and return fire before being wounded.
The IDF's official document emphasizes that personal weapons remain crucial for self-defense and combat missions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols. The commander stressed that weapon-carrying status should now be directly linked to operational needs and risk assessments conducted by unit commanders. The new rules outline various readiness states, including carrying unloaded weapons with the blocker inserted, as well as options with an attached magazine or a round in the chamber for immediate operational situations.
The incident under review occurred on October 23rd at a temporary checkpoint near Route 35. Two terrorists opened fire on soldiers from the "Ari" battalion, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to three others. Following the attack, dozens of soldiers reported similar issues with chamber blockers, prompting the army to review its instructions.