Religious Zionist leader Bezalel Smotrich has come out strongly in favor of the Givati soldiers who were placed under arrest after declining a duty assignment that conflicted with their religious convictions. He affirmed their right to serve in the IDF while upholding personal values, as long as it aligns with the Joint Service Order.
The soldiers were subject to a court-martial on Sunday rather than criminal charges, details indirectly confirmed by an IDF source speaking with The Jerusalem Post.
A second IDF source corroborated the disciplinary proceedings to the Post, noting military frustration that details were made public prior to the verdicts.
Smotrich highlighted that the soldiers have the complete support of the rabbis and leadership of the Hesder Yeshivot Association, who reviewed the situation thoroughly and with caution.
He expressed deep regret that the case moved forward, pledging to seek answers from the IDF as a representative of Religious Zionism, emphasizing his intervention.
