Israel’s War Unity Shaken by Allegations Prisoner Was Abused
- Defense minister demands Netanyahu investigate protests
- Society divided over supporting army versus human rights
Soldiers and police clash with protesters at Beit Lid military base in Israel on July 29.
Photographer: Ilia Yefimovich/picture alliance/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
Israel’s defense minister accused far-right counterparts in government of undermining the nation’s war effort by encouraging protests against the arrest of soldiers suspected of abusing a Palestinian prisoner.
Yoav Gallant demanded action against those who publicly supported the demonstrators — including fellow cabinet members — after the army diverted two regiments following unrest at two facilities for detainees related to the war in Gaza. Protesters surged through the gates of the jails on Monday, scuffling with guards and calling for the release of nine accused soldiers.