Shin Bet security guard (Archive)
Photo: Israel Bardugo
Rothschild Boulevard
Photo: Dudu Azoulay
The Shin Bet has ordered its workers not to take part in the growing social protest
on grounds that they are members of a State organization, Yedioth Ahronoth reported Thursday.
The directive, distributed via e-mail, was sent after many workers had sought authorization to participate in the demonstrations. One worker said that he had recognized many fellow workers in Saturday's mass rally, particularly young employees.
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"They didn't wave signs or shout, but expressed their protest in a quiet way," he said. The same person noted that his manager had told him that the new guideline also applies to walking around Rothschild Boulevard for fear of being reprimanded if recorded by media crews.
Unlike the Shin Bet, the IDF has yet to issue a similar directive.
However, army sources stressed that soldiers and career officers were prohibited by General Staff Orders from taking part in protests whether in duty or during leave.
A Shin Bet statement said: "As members of a State organization, Shin Bet staff have always been instructed to avoid protests directed against government policy. This guideline has been repeated in light of recent protests and questions by employees."
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