Israeli Tank Soldiers Detained for Unauthorized Swimming Under Alcohol Influence in Golan Heights

Eleven tank soldiers from the 77th Battalion serving at a Golan Heights base were disciplined after swimming without permission in the nearby Gilabon stream and waterfall. Two admitted to consuming alcohol, and one soldier sustained minor injuries after jumping into the water. The injured soldier received medical treatment and returned to duty.

The incident came to light during an investigation when soldiers initially concealed the circumstances of the injury from their commanders. It was revealed that the unauthorized outing from the base involved alcohol, with one soldier found in possession of a bottle. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) condemned the behavior, emphasizing the seriousness of leaving the base without approval and attempting to hide the facts.

An IDF official stated that the military is reinforcing discipline, personal responsibility, honesty, and reporting as core values essential to its operations. Soldiers are expected to act responsibly, be truthful to their commanders, and follow orders and IDF values.

Meanwhile, the soldiers' parents argued that the stream is very close to the base and that soldiers have historically gone there on weekends. They also claimed only two soldiers admitted to drinking alcohol and that the punishment given to all involved was disproportionate.