Golani troops who deserted base over new commander get suspended jail sentences
Soldiers in infantry brigade also ordered to complete educational program before returning to duty
Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
A military officer on Thursday meted out a light punishment to a company of Golani troops who deserted their training base earlier this week in apparent anger over being given a new commander.
According to the Israel Defense Forces, Col. Yiftah Norkin, the commander of the 7th Armored Brigade, ruled that the soldiers be given suspended jail sentences.
Additionally, the soldiers — members of the infantry brigade’s 51st Battalion — will have to complete an educational program in the coming days before being able to return to duty.
“The commanders will teach the soldiers material on discipline, military culture, spirit, and values. After that, they will return to their training program,” the IDF said, adding that their return to operational activity would be examined after their training period is up.
Following Tuesday’s incident, a statement attributed to the soldiers said they were angered by alleged unfair treatment over “a long period,” which culminated with the removal of their commander. The new commander was originally from the Paratroopers Brigade, which has a rivalry with Golani, further riling up the troops.
The military condemned the “serious incident that is not consistent with IDF values and what is expected of IDF soldiers.”
Golani soldiers have a history of mass desertion over alleged unfair treatment in the military.
In another recent incident involving troops of the 51st Battalion, several officers and soldiers were rebuked and jailed in February after a senior officer was beaten up during a brawl with a group of soldiers.
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