Israel’s military decrees anticipated a move by the US to sanction one of its units

Tel Aviv (Israel), April 21 (ANI/TPS): US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to impose sanctions on the “Netzah Yehudah” (Judah Forever) Battalion of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) over allegations that members have committed human rights violations. If such sanctions are imposed, the battalion itself and its members would be barred from receiving any US military assistance, in accordance with a 1997 US law.

The accusations against the unit revolve around the way certain Palestinians were allegedly treated by its soldiers. However, the IDF has already investigated these cases and said it will discipline any soldier found to have committed an offense.

The ‘Netzah Yehudah’ unit was created to allow more of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox youth to serve in the military. That’s why it now employs women and sets aside time each day for unit members to study Torah and participate in other religious activities. This makes the unit popular among religious “lone soldiers,” young people who have moved to Israel on their own and serve in the IDF.

Many of these lone soldiers are English speakers from the US, Canada and Great Britain.

In response to reports of impending sanctions, the IDF said: “The fighters of the Netzah Yehuda Battalion are now participating in the war in the Gaza Strip with courage and professionalism, while upholding the values ​​and spirit of the IDF and the principles of Preserve Gaza Strip.” international right.”

“In recent years,” it added, “the battalion’s fighters have been at the core of operational activities 24 hours a day, maintaining the security of the citizens of the State of Israel, in addition to being a leading battalion were in the combination of ultra-military operations. -Orthodox fighters in the IDF.”

The IDF added that it does not recognize the claims against the battalion as valid. However, it said it would review the matter if sanctions were imposed.

“The IDF is working and will continue to work to investigate any unusual occurrence in a businesslike manner and in accordance with the law,” the report said.

Benny Gantz, member of the Special War Cabinet, former Minister of Defense and former Chief of Staff of the IDF, noted: “The Netzah Yehuda Battalion is an inseparable part of the Israeli army. It is subject to military law and is responsible for operating in full compliance with international law.”

Gantz went on to say that the State of Israel has a “strong, independent judicial system that and will continue to rigorously evaluate any claim of violation or deviation from IDF orders and code of conduct.”

Secretary Gantz added that while he has “great appreciation for our American friends,” the decision to impose sanctions on an IDF unit and its soldiers “sets a dangerous precedent and sends the wrong message to our shared wartime enemies.” ”

“I intend to take action to change this decision,” he promised. (ANI/TPS)

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