Israeli Nationalists Protest Detention of Reservists Accused of Abuse

Late Monday, ultra-right-wing Israeli nationalists stormed two military facilities in a show of support for nine Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reservists detained for allegedly raping and abusing a Palestinian prisoner. The incident, which resulted in the prisoner requiring hospitalization, has sparked outrage among far-right Israelis, including some government officials. Videos circulating on social media depict guards at the Sde Teiman military base and prison near Beersheba confronting military police who were there to question the reservists. The soldiers under investigation are facing rare questioning during an ongoing conflict, which has intensified backlash from far-right factions. On the same evening, protesters attempted to breach another military facility, with one individual threatening an uprising if the reservists remained in custody. The nine soldiers are scheduled to appear before a military court on Tuesday, amid escalating tensions. Statements from Israeli lawmakers have further inflamed the situation, with a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party justifying the alleged abuse of Palestinian prisoners. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, known for his provocative stance, also defended the reservists, urging authorities to refrain from interference. In response to the protests, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi condemned the actions, emphasizing that such behavior jeopardizes national security during wartime. Meanwhile, human rights organizations and UN agencies continue to report allegations of abuse against Palestinians in Israeli detention, despite the military's claims of compliance with international law.