Veterans from Israel's elite military forces are leading the charge against the country's government in an unprecedented move. Thousands of Israeli veterans, many of whom served in elite units and have now retired or been discharged, have taken to the streets in large numbers, waving brown flags bearing the emblem of "Brother and Sisters in Arms." These protests have become a regular occurrence for 13 weeks now.
At the forefront of this movement is Yiftach Golov, a veteran who served in a special forces reconnaissance unit during the second intifada. Golov, like many other veterans, has a deep sense of duty and responsibility to defend Israel's democratic institutions. He believes that the current government's judicial overhaul plan poses an existential threat to the country and its values.
Golov, who is part of the "Brother and Sisters in Arms" group, says he is fighting for justice and liberty, just like the American story. The group's motto reflects their commitment to preserving Israel's democratic identity. They see themselves as part of a long line of soldiers who have defended the country's sovereignty.
Veterans from elite units are not only participating in protests but also taking on leadership roles within the movement. Some have even threatened not to train or serve if the government proceeds with its plans, citing the potential risks to national security and Israel's democratic institutions.
Despite Netanyahu's announcement of a pause in the legislation, many protesters remain skeptical. They believe that the delay is merely a stalling tactic, allowing Netanyahu to regroup and push ahead with his reforms. The protests continue, with tens of thousands taking to the streets every week.
For Golov and others like him, the stakes are high. They see themselves as carrying the torch of light for Israel's democratic future. As one veteran noted, "We're willing to do whatever it takes to defend this country and its values."
The movement has gained significant momentum, with many Israelis questioning Netanyahu's leadership and the government's plans. The protesters' determination is evident in their slogans and chants, echoing Golov's words: "Whatever needs to be done for that" โ a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving Israel's democratic identity.
As the protests continue, one thing remains clear: the Israeli veterans are determined to protect their country's future.
At the forefront of this movement is Yiftach Golov, a veteran who served in a special forces reconnaissance unit during the second intifada. Golov, like many other veterans, has a deep sense of duty and responsibility to defend Israel's democratic institutions. He believes that the current government's judicial overhaul plan poses an existential threat to the country and its values.
Golov, who is part of the "Brother and Sisters in Arms" group, says he is fighting for justice and liberty, just like the American story. The group's motto reflects their commitment to preserving Israel's democratic identity. They see themselves as part of a long line of soldiers who have defended the country's sovereignty.
Veterans from elite units are not only participating in protests but also taking on leadership roles within the movement. Some have even threatened not to train or serve if the government proceeds with its plans, citing the potential risks to national security and Israel's democratic institutions.
Despite Netanyahu's announcement of a pause in the legislation, many protesters remain skeptical. They believe that the delay is merely a stalling tactic, allowing Netanyahu to regroup and push ahead with his reforms. The protests continue, with tens of thousands taking to the streets every week.
For Golov and others like him, the stakes are high. They see themselves as carrying the torch of light for Israel's democratic future. As one veteran noted, "We're willing to do whatever it takes to defend this country and its values."
The movement has gained significant momentum, with many Israelis questioning Netanyahu's leadership and the government's plans. The protesters' determination is evident in their slogans and chants, echoing Golov's words: "Whatever needs to be done for that" โ a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving Israel's democratic identity.
As the protests continue, one thing remains clear: the Israeli veterans are determined to protect their country's future.