IDF suspends entire reserve battalion after CNN crew attack, in unprecedented discipl
Ynetnews • • world
Key Points:
- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) suspended the entire Reserve 941st Battalion, known as “Netzah Yisrael,” after an incident where a CNN crew was attacked while covering an illegal settler takeover in the West Bank.
- During the confrontation, IDF soldiers allegedly aimed weapons at journalists, placed a cameraman in a chokehold, and made statements claiming all West Bank land belongs to Jews, seeking revenge for a recent killing.
- The battalion was dismissed via Zoom, ordered to return home within 24 hours, a move intended as a deterrent and reportedly ordered by Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir.
- Soldiers expressed shock and frustration, describing the suspension as collective punishment for one soldier's actions and questioning the impact on future reserve recruitment, especially among ultra-Orthodox soldiers.
- The decision followed a directive for a rapid investigation and command-level review after a discussion between Zamir and Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth.
