Ex-IDF Spokesperson Appointed to Lead Breaking the Silence

Ayelet Krauzer, who served in the IDF Spokesperson's Unit during the war and was discharged two months ago, announced on Monday via her X account that she has been appointed the new spokesperson for the organization Breaking the Silence. In a post that garnered over 1.3 million views, Krauzer revealed her personal background, her path to military service, and her criticism of the IDF Spokesperson's Unit's conduct.

Krauzer stated she grew up in the Haredi community and three years ago decided to enlist in the military during the war, believing she was joining to defend the country. However, her experiences during service led to a significant shift in her worldview. She expressed criticism regarding how the IDF Spokesperson's Unit presents the army's activities to the Israeli public and international media, alleging that public trust in the military was prioritized over the public's right to know.

She made serious accusations about her work in the unit, claiming she witnessed how the term 'terrorist' was applied to innocent Palestinians and how statements were crafted based on the target audience and objectives. Krauzer stated, "During my service, I played with the details released to the media. I saw how the word 'terrorist' was attached even to innocent Palestinians and how the announcement was tailored to the target audience and the goal set before it." She added, "I was never good at staying silent in the face of injustice, and here I was asked to do public relations for them. I learned how to phrase dozens of deaths in one attack and automatically add that we regret any harm to uninvolved individuals. This was my service routine. So I am not silent. If you served in the war, do not stay silent either. And in any case, follow."

Reactions to her appointment were swift. Screenwriter Meni Assayag questioned, "3,400 likes. How many terrorists are following you?" Social media personality Yevgeny Zurobinsky quipped, "Keep updating." In contrast, Channel 12 reporter Arad Nir offered his congratulations, writing, "Much success, Ayelet." Yinon Magal, host of 'The Patriots,' shared Nir's response and commented, "Moving, Breaking the Silence and Channel 12. A love story."