Explosive Failures: Top IDF Officers Suspended After Rocket Explosion Injures Soldiers

The detonation of an RPG rocket during a training exercise prompted an immediate investigation into the cause and its aftermath.

The investigation found that the explosion occurred due to serious breaches in safety protocols. The training, which was designed to familiarize soldiers with "enemy munitions," saw an RPG rocket fired from inside a classroom and subsequently detonating outside the building. The inquiry revealed that proper safety measures had not been followed, and commanders had deviated from established procedures.

As a result of these findings, the IDF has taken swift action. The entire chain of command at the base, up to the rank of lieutenant colonel, was suspended for one week while the investigation continued. The Commander of the Israeli Ground Forces, in consultation with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, also ordered the immediate implementation of lessons learned in all Ground Forces training facilities.

Further disciplinary actions have been taken against several officers involved in the incident. The commander of the Combat Engineering School, a colonel, will face a two-year suspension of his promotion and receive an official reprimand. Likewise, the commander of the Combat Engineer Corps training base, a lieutenant colonel, will experience the same consequences. Additionally, two majors in charge of basic and advanced training tracks have also been reprimanded.

The Military Police Investigations Unit has also launched its own inquiry, which will culminate in findings sent to the Military Prosecutor General. The investigation is expected to bring further accountability for the safety lapses that led to this dangerous and costly incident.