Rifle Butt to the Face, Screams of Terror: New Testimonies of Violence in the Bedouin Battalion

An investigation by News 14 reveals new testimonies of physical violence, harassment, and theft in the Bedouin reconnaissance battalion, including an attack with a rifle butt and screams that led to fainting. The report paints a picture of a cover-up by senior command, alongside the IDF Spokesperson's response denying some of the incidents.

An investigation by News 14 brings disturbing new testimonies of severe violence in the Bedouin reconnaissance battalion (Battalion 585). Among the testimonies: a company commander struck a female soldier in the face with a rifle butt, causing serious injury; a deputy battalion commander screamed at a female soldier until she fainted. A former officer claims the battalion commander tried to sweep the incidents under the rug and threatened the soldier that if she complained to the Military Police, he would put her in jail. A former female officer testified about harassment and theft, and that the battalion commander refused to open a case with the Military Police. The IDF Spokesperson responded that most of the incidents are inaccurate, and that the physical incident did not occur. However, the IDF emphasizes that it takes any deviation seriously and that all cases were handled. The report presents a picture of a gap between the soldiers' testimonies and the army's version.