An article published in Haaretz warns that the erosion of values and discipline within the Israeli army could lead to its transformation into an 'armed gang,' jeopardizing its ability to achieve victory in battles. This warning comes from Ofer Shelach and Adith Shafran Gitelman, who assert that the loss of discipline not only undermines the army's moral image but may also lead to defeat on the battlefield.
The article, authored by Shelach, the head of the National Security Policy Research Program at the Institute for National Security Studies and a former Knesset member, along with Gitelman, a senior researcher in the program, holds particular significance as it emerges from within the Israeli security establishment. This reflects a deep concern regarding ethics and discipline as integral to the army's combat capability, rather than merely issues of propaganda or legality.
Details of the Situation
These warnings come at a time when Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has cautioned against the phenomenon of looting within the army, indicating that such behavior could tarnish the entire reputation of the Israeli military. Zamir has pledged to investigate these incidents and not overlook them, reflecting a growing concern about the army's image as a disciplined force.
The issue has escalated beyond isolated incidents, with an openly expressed fear of a 'thieves' army' image. The prolonged war faced by the Israeli army has fostered an environment of looting and lawlessness, threatening the army's internal image. The authors note that the Chief of Staff does not have the luxury of 'choosing his battles' in this matter, despite increasing political pressures.
Context and Background
These warnings coincide with Zamir's remarks about 'value-less events' within the army, where he acknowledged that the current situation is the result of a long and complex period. He warned that the degradation of standards could be as dangerous as operational threats. Additionally, he has imposed restrictions on soldiers' use of social media for disseminating controversial messages, deeming this a 'red line.'
The article in Haaretz goes further, asserting that looting is not an isolated incident but rather a consequence of the ongoing war and the depletion of forces. The prolonged conflict makes it difficult for participants to maintain the image of a warrior, reflecting a collapse of boundaries between a disciplined army and an unruly force.
Consequences and Impact
The deeper danger is that this long war leaves many in service viewing every Palestinian or Lebanese as an enemy. Zamir's warning about looting reflects a greater concern than mere theft of property; it indicates a breakdown of the boundaries between a disciplined army and an unruly force.
In this context, Zamir expects that 2026 will remain a 'year of fighting' on all fronts, suggesting that the environment that has produced the 'thieves' army' phenomenon is likely to persist unless warnings are translated into effective actions.
Impact on the Arab Region
These warnings serve as a wake-up call not only for the Israeli army but also for Arab nations closely monitoring the developments. The collapse of discipline and values within the Israeli army could escalate tensions in the region and increase the risks of conflict.
In conclusion, it is evident that the Israeli army is facing not a transient discipline crisis but an internal identity crisis. The pressing question now is: Is the army still capable of controlling the war, or has the prolonged conflict begun to reshape it into an exhausted and angry force?