Smotrich Backs Jailed Givati Soldiers and Demands Answers From IDF

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich backed 16 Givati Brigade soldiers jailed after refusing a Gaza mission involving a female paramedic. He said the soldiers sought to serve while preserving their religious beliefs and complying with the Joint Service Order, and that Hesder Yeshivot Association rabbis and administrators supported their decision. Smotrich said he had hoped the IDF would resolve the dispute without his intervention, but would now demand answers. Five soldiers received 10 days in military confinement and 11 received five days.