IDF chief tells soldiers in Gaza political arguments have no place in the military

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir met with troops in Gaza City’s Shejaiya neighborhood earlier today, telling them that the military will not allow political arguments within its ranks, amid mounting letters signed by reservists and veterans calling for a hostage deal with Hamas even if such a deal comes at the cost of ending the war.

“The IDF will continue to operate in a dignified manner and will not allow disputes to penetrate its ranks. Reserve soldiers have a right to express opinions when not in active reserve service, as civilians, on any subject, and in a democratic manner,” Zamir says to reservists of the Jerusalem Brigade.

“There are enough methods and places for civilian protests. Attempting to drag in the IDF, including speaking as a group in the name of a military unit, is unacceptable, and we will not allow it,” he says.

“The IDF appreciates the reserve personnel. The IDF is made up of a variety of people and opinions that work together to achieve the mission and security. The mission is carried out together,” Zamir continues.

“The goal of the fighting in Gaza is first and foremost the defense of the country, returning the hostages, and defeating Hamas,” Zamir adds.

During an assessment with Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. Yaniv Asor and the commander of the 252nd Division, Brig. Gen. Yehuda Vach, in Shejaiya, Zamir approved operational plans, the military says.