A senior Israeli army general’s remarks ignited a firestorm of controversy as he lambasted the nation’s political leadership, urging politicians to emulate the unity demonstrated by soldiers on the battlefield and adopt a cohesive stance. The call comes amidst escalating disputes within Israel stemming from diverging views between the ruling coalition and the opposition.
In remarks aired by Israeli media, General Dan Goldfus, commander of the 98th Division engaged in combat operations in the city of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, directed a message to political officials, asserting, “You need need to be worthy of us” of the dedication exhibited by soldiers on the front lines over the past five months.
Goldfus urged politicians to guarantee everyone’s participation, “Make sure that everyone takes part, you must,” implicitly referring to the contentious issue of conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jewish men into the army, who have long been exempted from military service. This matter has stirred considerable controversy in Israel for weeks.
My knowledge is up to date only until January 2022, so I cannot provide information on events or developments that occurred after that time. Therefore, I am unable to confirm or provide details about the specific incident you mentioned involving Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Divisions are intensifying within Israeli political circles regarding the handling of the conflict in the Gaza Strip, as varying perspectives emerge on the future trajectory of the conflict among members of the wartime government coalition. Concurrently, the ongoing controversy surrounding the hostage issue further exacerbates tensions within the political landscape.
The emergency government coalition in Israel is facing “intense and competing pressures” as the conflict persists. Far-right politicians are advocating for stronger military action in Gaza, while relatives of the hostages, along with members of both the wartime government and the opposition, are urging concessions to secure the release of the captives.
The Israeli army has refrained from offering a comment on General Goldfus’s statements, while a spokesperson for the Israeli Prime Minister declined to provide any response as well.
In this context, Israeli political analyst Eli Nissan contends that Goldfus’s statements are pragmatic, as they underscore the importance of unity among the populace, aligning with the sentiments of soldiers and military forces who seek solidarity from the people.
Nissan elaborated in an interview with the media that the statements made by the Israeli general do not suggest any division within the ranks of the army or a disconnect between the military and the government. He emphasized that the commander in question has been actively engaged in combat operations in Gaza for over four months, indicating his commitment to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza.
Nissan further elaborated that while opposition forces have voiced support for General Goldfus’s statements and some factions within the government coalition have also expressed agreement, the situation has not yet escalated to the point of a definitive split.
Nissan remarked that the sole criticism of such statements lies in failing to seek approval from his superiors before issuing them.
Goldfus was summoned by the Israeli army to provide clarifications after allegedly “breached a long-standing taboo” concerning Israeli army officers refraining from public involvement in politics.
According to Haaretz newspaper, it has been reported that the interrogation of Goldfus will be conducted by the commander of the Israeli army’s Central Command, Yehuda Fuchs, and the army chief of staff, Herzl Halevy.
The newspaper also reported that the Israeli army confirmed its awareness of Goldfus’s statements and approved their content. However, they stated they were not aware of the portion in which he criticized political leaders.
Several Israeli lawmakers voiced their agreement with General Goldfus’s statements, while others expressed dissatisfaction with any military official making political remarks of any nature.
Opposition lawmaker Yoav Segalowitz asserted in an interview with Kan public radio on Thursday, “The uniformed officer should only address matters pertaining to his decisions or remove the uniform.”
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Veteran political and military analyst Nahum Barnea expressed in the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, “Despite the sincere sentiments of the esteemed officer, engaging in political discourse is not within the purview or authority granted by the conflict in Gaza.”
He added, “While it is commendable that Goldfus assumes responsibility, like other officers, there is a notable absence of humility and modesty in his actions.”
Nissan dismisses the possibility of imposing severe penalties on Goldfus that would result in his discharge from the army due to these statements.
Nissan remarked, “Given the media support for him in Israel, I doubt that the military leadership will levy any sanctions, punitive measures, or consider discharging him from the army.”
