Givati Brigade Commander Denies Disrespect to Fallen Soldiers Amid Battalion Protest

Brigade Commander Lt. Col. Netanel Shamkha addressed the recent protest by the Sabra Battalion at Sde Teyman during an interview on the IDF podcast on Thursday evening. He explained the motives behind the battalion commander's decision that led to the soldiers' withdrawal, emphasizing that no disrespect was shown to the families of fallen soldiers. Shamkha noted that while there were signs related to the "Pazam" (a term referring to hazing or bullying) targeting younger soldiers, there were no symbols of fallen soldiers involved. He stated, "I spoke with the bereaved families and maintain good relations with them. There was no harm to anyone's honor." Shamkha highlighted ongoing issues of hazing and bullying within the brigade, saying, "Many phenomena of Pazam and harassment of young soldiers have emerged, and we will not allow it." He added that the battalion commander found signs used in Pazam ceremonies directed at younger soldiers, a problem that is not new. The brigade has previously dealt with cases where soldiers feared abuse from senior soldiers at night, and efforts continue to eradicate such behavior.