Ziv Burns Reinstated to IDF Reserve Unit After Defense Minister Katz's Intervention

Right-wing activist Ziv Burns announced his reinstatement to the IDF reserve unit following intervention by Defense Minister Israel Katz's office. Burns had been informed last Wednesday by his commanders in the 7th Brigade that his reserve service would be terminated due to political statements he made while wearing IDF uniform. However, within a day, the decision was reversed after Katz and his office became involved.

Burns stated that he was initially told he was being dismissed from reserve service, which he described as selective enforcement. He and his supporters applied pressure through social media and other channels, prompting Katz's office to take notice. Burns praised Katz for acting beyond politics with integrity and fairness to protect an ordinary citizen, despite having criticized him in the past.

According to reports from Galei Tzahal, the dismissal process was not conducted properly: Burns was not subjected to disciplinary proceedings nor was there an official command decision to remove him. Sources familiar with the case said Burns was reinstated conditionally after Katz's intervention.

Burns expressed hope and optimism that such actions demonstrate the presence of principled leadership within the defense establishment. The case highlights tensions around political expression by soldiers and reservists in the IDF and the limits of military disciplinary measures.