Ex-Navy chief Marom: Police should handle unrest in West Bank, not drafted soldiers

Former Israel Navy commander Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eliezer Marom criticized the handling of escalating unrest in the West Bank village of Kusra, calling it a "shocking incident." He argued that a small group's unlawful actions are tarnishing the country's reputation and affecting settlers. Marom emphasized that the Border Police, not drafted IDF soldiers, should manage such internal disturbances, stating, "IDF soldiers, who are compelled to serve under the draft law, are our children; they aren't trained to operate as police officers." He cited the injury of a US citizen in the unrest, adding an international dimension. Additionally, Marom dismissed fears of another October 7-style attack, asserting that the IDF's current positioning near Gaza communities provides sufficient security.