IDF Reservist Removed After Filming Pro-Smotriz Political Video in Gaza, Minister Demands Reinstatement

An Israeli Defense Forces reservist was dismissed from service after recording a video in uniform on a Gaza beach, openly endorsing the Religious Zionism party led by Bezalel Smotrich. In the video, the soldier claimed that troops were "preparing the ground for settlement" and urged viewers to vote for Smotrich. The footage, initially shared in private groups, quickly reached military commanders, leading to a disciplinary hearing and immediate removal from reserve duty despite the soldier having completed hundreds of reserve days.

The IDF spokesperson stated that the soldier's conduct violated military orders prohibiting political expressions by soldiers in uniform, both in active duty and reserves. However, the IDF has not yet provided an updated official statement confirming the dismissal. The Religious Zionism party condemned the dismissal as selective enforcement, highlighting that left-wing politicians and candidates frequently campaign in uniform without reprimand. They described the soldier as a hero who risked his life for Israel and called on the IDF Chief of Staff to reinstate him.

This morning, Finance Minister and Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich sent a sharp letter to IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi, copied to Defense Minister Israel Katz, demanding intervention. Smotrich acknowledged that political activity by soldiers in uniform is improper but argued that the punishment of dismissal was disproportionate. He accused the military of double standards, noting that left-wing opposition figures openly campaign in uniform without consequences, while his supporter was swiftly punished.

Ahead of the October elections, the IDF has tightened regulations to prevent political activity by soldiers, but the military faces challenges managing political expressions among reservists. Security officials anticipate the need for firm responses early in the election campaign to avoid loss of control over such incidents.