Ashkenazi: I have zero tolerance for abuse in IDF ranks
IDF Chief of Staff speaks at Command and Staff College graduation ceremony, tells officers recent abuse cases do not reflect military norms, IDF will eradicate phenomenon
IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gabi Ashkenazi spoke before Command and Staff College graduated Wednesday and said that the recent abuse cases found within military ranks were "highly unusual… they represent a moral and command failure and I have zero tolerance for it."
The commander in chief told the officers that he expected them to pay attention to any report of abuse, anywhere in the armed forces "and encourage their exposure, even if it hurts us, so we would be able to locate the problem and treat it, but most importantly – to prevent it.
"Over the past few weeks," he continued, "We have learned of several cases in which soldiers mistreated their comrades. These abnormal events included verbal and physical abuse, as well as abuse of authority. These case are being investigated both on the legal and command levels and we are adamant to see them trough.
"These cases do not reflect military norms, but nevertheless they require us to investigate and study them in full, from every aspect, so we may eradicate this kind of criminal behavior."
Ashkenazi told the officers they now have a crucial role in annihilating such phenomena and creating a society based on mutual respect.
With the College commanders (Photo: Yaron Brener)
Addressing the recent scandal that led to Galilee Division Commander Brigadier-General Imad Fares resignation, Ashkenazi said that the case "must be a reminder to us all that we are held to a higher moral standard.
"As officers, we are required to set a personal example at any given time, in and out of uniform." Fares, he added, is a highly regarded officer, "But his exemplary service cannot be used to ignore the gravity of his actions."
Israeli society simply expects more from IDF officers, he concluded. "I know that that is what led Brig.-Gen. Fares to decide to retire and I believe he made the right decision. We must never lose sight of the fact that we set an example to all."
