In a move that has ignited a firestorm of criticism, the IDF Spokesperson's Unit stumbled into a political minefield, seemingly defending a reservist previously associated with calls to halt military service during anti-government protests.
IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari's attempt to characterize Ron Sherf, a member of the politically active 'Brothers in Arms' organization, as an "active reserve soldier with many merits" has backfired spectacularly. Notably absent from Hagari's statement was any mention of Sherf's controversial past calls for service refusal during heated protests against judicial reform.
The response has drawn blistering criticism from across Israel's political spectrum. Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli labeled the statement "a disgrace" and asserting that "This is no way to run an army." Chikli went further, implicating IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi in what he sees as a serious lapse in judgment.
Even more scathing was the reaction from Almog Cohen, a member of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party. Cohen expressed shock at what he viewed as the military's mouthpiece "siding with the despicable refuser." He accused Sherf of actively undermining the IDF by naming operational units and declaring his intent to shirk duty in wartime.
About Turn:
Today (Thursday), the IDF announced that Scherf's reserve service will be examined by his commanders, a reversal from their previous praise of his military record. This change came after Arutz Sheva - Israel National News reported on Scherf's claim of holding a classified position in the selection process for special forces.
MK Almog Cohen welcomed the IDF's reevaluation, stressing the need for soldiers to be free from political agendas.