For the first time in over 50 years, a commander of the IDF’s Paratroopers Brigade, who was accused of misconduct, will not be promoted.
Col. Ami Biton, who served as the commander of the brigade between May 2023 and May 2025, will end his service in the military after being passed over for promotion.
Biton was reprimanded for treating subordinates in a humiliating way during the fighting in the Gaza Strip at the start of the war. Several additional allegations were made against the commander by soldiers.
Every commander of the Paratroopers Brigade since 1973 has gone on to be promoted, including six who later became chief of staff.
Biton’s departure from the IDF was first reported by Army Radio. The military confirms the report by saying that Biton will “end his service in the IDF at his request.”
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From the Liveblog of
Monday, July 20, 2026
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