IDF Soldier Sentenced to 10 Days Imprisonment for Smoking on Sabbath, Removed from Combat Duty

An IDF soldier from the Netzah Yehuda Battalion was sentenced to ten days of imprisonment and removed from combat duties after smoking a cigarette on the Sabbath, according to a report by Kan News on Tuesday evening. The soldier, who comes from a religious background, was about one month away from completing his service after more than two years fighting in Gaza and Lebanon.

Criticism arose from the soldier's circle, describing the punishment as "disproportionate." The IDF has not yet responded to Kan News' request for comment. This incident highlights tensions within the military regarding religious observance and disciplinary measures.

The report also noted related issues, including soldiers being forced to pay for food after refusing to bring a kosher supervisor, and a sharp rise in Jewish crime in the West Bank, including offenses against security forces.