For the first time, IDF commanders have received instructions on handling refusals to serve in protest of the government.
Kan published a letter sent by a senior officer in an elite unit to the forces in which the procedures regarding refusals were presented, including what would constitute a refusal, instructions for commanders' conduct, and the method of disciplinary treatment.
Among other things, it is written that "refusal to serve in the IDF is defined only as a person who has been called to the reserves and declared that he is not coming because of the judicial reform. His action will be considered as refusing to serve. Any other actions will not. To emphasize the issue, the publication of a notice of protest by groups or individuals who do not intend to join the reserves in the future - will not be considered refusal in the IDF."
The document emphasized that "there is no permission for commanders to share messages/opinions on the subject of refusal, especially not WhatsApp messages, and conversations with the reserve personnel, with the media who can misinterpret things."
"Any disciplinary action against commanders for refusal requires the approval of the Ministry of Defense. No action will be taken against protests expressed online, in letters, etc.," it said.
Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi today addressed the threats of refusal in the IDF that arose in recent times as a protest against judicial reform.
"These days oblige us to focus on the security mission and the cohesion that supports it, we do not have the authority in the current reality not to show up for every challenge and mission," Halevi said.