Reserve Soldier Films Campaign Video for Smotrich, Party Claims He Was Removed from Duty

A reserve soldier recorded himself in uniform in a promotional video supporting the Religious Zionism party and its leader Bezalel Smotrich. In the video, filmed in the field near former settlements in northern Gaza Strip, the soldier urged the public to vote for Smotrich, emphasizing commitment to settlement and security. He referenced the historic settlements of Eli Sinai and Dugit and contrasted his presence in the field on Tisha B'Av with others mourning elsewhere in Israel, expressing optimism about redemption.

Following the video's release on social media, the Religious Zionism party claimed the soldier was dismissed from his reserve service and demanded his reinstatement, accusing the military of selective enforcement. The IDF has not yet confirmed or denied the soldier's removal from reserve duty. The party's call to the Chief of Staff highlights tensions around political expression by soldiers and the military's disciplinary actions.

The incident underscores the intersection of military service, political activism, and settlement issues in Israel, especially as elections approach. The soldier's video and the party's response have sparked debate about the role of reservists in political campaigns and the military's stance on such activities.