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 to enter the military, amid mounting letters signed by reservists and veterans calling for a hostage deal with Hamas even if it 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, in any subject, and in a democratic manner,” Zamir said to reservists of the Jerusalem Brigade. “There are enough methods and places for civilian protests. Attempting to drag the IDF, including talking as a group in the name of a military unit, is unacceptable and we will not allow it.”
“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 continued..
He explained the IDF is in a multi-front war and is “operating solely out of matter-of-fact and professional interests.”
“The goal of the fighting in Gaza is first and foremost the defense of the country, returning the hostages, and defeating Hamas,” Zamir added.
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.