Israeli military veterans have become the backbone of the ongoing protest movement against the Israeli government's judicial overhaul plan, with many of these veterans feeling it is their duty to defend the nation's democracy.
These former elite forces personnel, including some high-ranking officers, have joined the protests in large numbers, often wearing brown shirts bearing the logo of a group called "Brother and Sisters in Arms." They bring with them military expertise that helps organize and mobilize the demonstrations. Their presence has been instrumental in moving the needle on public opinion, as many ordinary citizens begin to question the legitimacy of the current government.
According to Yiftach Golov, one such veteran, they are motivated by a sense of duty and responsibility to protect Israel's values, including justice and liberty. They see themselves as fighting for something greater than their own interests, much like American patriots who fought for independence from Britain.
Golov himself did not initially get involved in politics but soon became part of the protests after witnessing the injustices in the proposed legislation. He acknowledged that some veterans have taken it a step further by refusing to serve or train, fearing that they would be complicit in undermining the country's democracy.
The Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has temporarily delayed votes on the remaining legislation pending April's Passover recess but many protesters believe this delay is merely a tactical ploy to buy time for himself rather than an actual willingness to engage with opposition.
Netanyahu has made it clear that he believes the overhaul plan is necessary and that refusing military service or training would be detrimental to the nation, a stance shared by many ordinary citizens.
These former elite forces personnel, including some high-ranking officers, have joined the protests in large numbers, often wearing brown shirts bearing the logo of a group called "Brother and Sisters in Arms." They bring with them military expertise that helps organize and mobilize the demonstrations. Their presence has been instrumental in moving the needle on public opinion, as many ordinary citizens begin to question the legitimacy of the current government.
According to Yiftach Golov, one such veteran, they are motivated by a sense of duty and responsibility to protect Israel's values, including justice and liberty. They see themselves as fighting for something greater than their own interests, much like American patriots who fought for independence from Britain.
Golov himself did not initially get involved in politics but soon became part of the protests after witnessing the injustices in the proposed legislation. He acknowledged that some veterans have taken it a step further by refusing to serve or train, fearing that they would be complicit in undermining the country's democracy.
The Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has temporarily delayed votes on the remaining legislation pending April's Passover recess but many protesters believe this delay is merely a tactical ploy to buy time for himself rather than an actual willingness to engage with opposition.
Netanyahu has made it clear that he believes the overhaul plan is necessary and that refusing military service or training would be detrimental to the nation, a stance shared by many ordinary citizens.