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IDF launches investigation into videos of book burnings by soldiers

Gillberg
IDF launches investigation into videos of book burnings by soldiers

The Israeli military said on Friday that it was launching an investigation into clips circulating on social media showing soldiers stationed at Al-Aqsa University burning books, including a Koran in one clip.

Over the past week, several clips have circulated on social media showing IDF troops stationed at Al-Aqsa University in Gaza City burning books, one of which is said to be a Koran.

The Israeli military responded on Friday that it had ordered military police to launch an investigation into the clips.

The Israel Defense Forces told Israeli media: “This is a serious incident that is contrary to the values ​​and orders of the Israel Defense Forces. The investigating military police have launched an investigation into the incident, the results of which will subsequently be submitted to the military prosecutor for review.”

Regarding the possible burning of the Quran, the IDF issued a statement saying: “The behavior of the soldier in the video is not in line with the values ​​of the IDF. The IDF respects all religions and strongly condemns such behavior.” The IDF also confirmed that this incident had been referred to the military police for investigation.

The soldiers in the clips were identified by Israeli media as reservists who were involved in attacks on the Gaza Strip.

IDF soldiers operate in the Gaza Strip on May 20, 2024 (Source: IDF SPEAKER UNIT)

Initiation of an investigation

To prevent inadvertent security leaks, the Israeli army issued a standing order at the beginning of the war against soldiers sharing images taken in the Gaza Strip.

The opening of an investigation is an unusual move, as Israeli media reported that there were orders “from above” to stop investigations that could lead to external reactions and instead focus on “internal” reactions that would most likely be a reprimand or suspension.

The same report mentions that the investigation into this incident has reached the highest levels of the Israeli Defense Forces, with a strong focus on identifying the soldiers seen in the clips.

The clips sparked a fierce reaction on Palestinian social media, with many saying this was not an isolated incident. Others said it was the result of Israel’s refusal to punish settler attacks in the West Bank.



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