'Deserves promition.' Col. Virob
Photo: Guy Asiag
Kfir Brigade commander who condoned violence promoted
Colonel Itai Virob, who said violent acts against Palestinians during military operations is reasonable, to be promoted to brigadier-general, become chief officer of infantry, paratroopers
Former Kfir Brigade Commander Itai Virob, who condoned violence against Palestinians during operational activities in his testimony in military court, will be promoted to the rank of brigadier-general, and will serve as chief officer of the infantry and paratroopers.
The decision was made during a hearing headed by IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, and will come into effect next year. Virob will be replacing Brigadier-General Miki Edelstein.
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Colonel Virob's promotion was put on hold after he made controversial remarks during the trial of Deputy Commander of the Shimshon Brigade Lieutenant Adam Malul, who was accused of assaulting a Palestinian during operational activity in the West Bank.
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As first revealed on Ynet, Virob testified that "sometimes a slap or a blow to a Palestinian in order to calm him down are reasonable courses of action."
Colonel Virob was reprimanded for his remarks, but after a Military Police investigation it was decided not to put him on trial – a decision that paved the way to his promotion.
IDF officers familiar with Colonel Virob welcomed his promotion, saying he is well deserving and was seriously harmed by the incident. "The case against him has been closed, and there is no reason to keep punishing him while he can contribute to the IDF with his rich experience," said an infantry officer.
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