Shlomo Sarid Completes Reserve Officer Course After US Sanctions and Service Suspension

Shlomo Sarid, a co-founder of the "Tzav 9" movement opposing aid trucks reaching Hamas in Gaza, has completed the infantry reserve officer course. Sarid, who fought for months in Gaza, joined the movement after witnessing aid trucks allegedly reaching Hamas militants during his service. About two years ago, the Biden administration imposed personal sanctions on Sarid and Reut Ben Haim for blocking aid trucks, but these sanctions were later lifted by President Donald Trump upon taking office. Sarid's reserve service was temporarily frozen due to his activism with Tzav 9, but he later returned to service and formed a commando reserve unit composed of fighters previously exempt or serving in less elite units.

Sarid completed the officer course in a ceremony on Thursday evening, during which the cadets met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Sarid thanked Netanyahu for lifting the sanctions and inquired about measures to prevent Hamas from gaining from aid trucks. Netanyahu reportedly assured that efforts are ongoing to stop aid from reaching Hamas. After the course, Sarid stated his commitment to operational efforts and leadership, warning that Gaza's reconstruction is beginning before Hamas is disarmed, contrary to public statements. He emphasized the need to halt the strengthening of the terrorist organization that endangers nearby communities and pledged to fulfill his duties as both a soldier and citizen to influence decision-makers toward victory.