IDF Veteran Soldiers Return to Base After Protest Over Broken Unit Symbols at Sde Teyman

On Thursday afternoon, dozens of veteran fighters from the Sabra Battalion of the Givati Brigade left the Sde Teyman base in protest, singing a derogatory chant after their commanders removed and destroyed their unit signs. A senior military official reported that many soldiers have since returned to the base, calling the incident serious but promising it will be handled with respect for the soldiers. The battalion commander told soldiers' parents that those who returned by 4 p.m. would not be punished, though a planned assembly was postponed to allow for a full assessment of the situation.

The battalion commander explained to parents that he broke wooden signs symbolizing negative behaviors such as hazing, clarifying that the signs were not related to fallen soldiers or memorials, contrary to some media claims. He acknowledged that many soldiers who abandoned their weapons and left the base acted under social pressure rather than clear judgment and offered a chance to return without penalty. A senior military source emphasized that while all soldiers fought bravely in combat, this disciplinary breach is unacceptable and will be addressed firmly but respectfully.

Givati Brigade commander Colonel Natanel Shimka issued a letter condemning the incident as severe and underscoring that values must be upheld both in combat and daily life. He praised the soldiers' wartime dedication but stressed that discipline and respect for commanders are non-negotiable. The letter reaffirmed the brigade's foundation on professionalism, camaraderie, discipline, and trust.

The protesting soldiers stated that after returning from Lebanon, a ceremony was held to inventory their company’s stored items, during which commanders unjustifiably destroyed longstanding unit signs that represent their tradition and morale. They said these symbols, passed down through generations, embody unity and strength during difficult times. The soldiers accused some officers of ongoing disrespect and vowed not to remain silent any longer.

Current and former Sabra Battalion soldiers explained that each company has "shields" bearing symbols tied to their identity, treated with great care and reverence. The battalion commander’s destruction of these signs was seen as breaking the unit’s tradition and spirit. While acknowledging some problematic hazing practices among veterans and rookies, soldiers emphasized that these customs also foster belonging and responsibility. They lamented that damaging the symbols harmed their morale and called for more constructive ways to address negative behaviors without undermining the soldiers’ sense of pride and continuity.