Israeli military veterans, who have fought in elite forces and served their country with distinction, are now taking up the cause of defending Israeli democracy. For many of them, it's an unexpected role, but one they feel is essential to protect the country's values.
The group, known as "Brother and Sisters in Arms," has become a vocal presence at anti-government protests across Tel Aviv. Led by veterans such as Yiftach Golov, who served in special forces during the second intifada, the group's brown flags can be seen among hundreds of thousands of protesters.
Golov, a PhD holder in biophysics from Tel Aviv University, says he was initially drawn to the protests out of curiosity. But after attending one demonstration and witnessing the passion and conviction of the protesters, he knew he had to get involved.
"We believe this is our responsibility to go once again called to the flag of the nation to stop this madness and defend Israel," Golov said during an interview with CNN. He believes that Israel's democratic values are under threat from the government's judicial overhaul plan, which would give governing parties more control over the judiciary.
The group's members have brought their military experience and skills to the protests. They're using tactics such as organization, mobilization, and strategic planning to coordinate demonstrations and rallies. Some have even taken to becoming key organizers and demonstrators, including a group of drummers known as the "Pink Front" who lead chants at the protests.
For many veterans, like Golov, joining the protests has been a way to channel their sense of duty and responsibility into something meaningful. They're fighting for justice and liberty, just like in the American story, and feel that Israel's flag is being misused by those who want to undermine democracy.
"We're carrying the torch of light," Golov said. "We have a deep feeling that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and that we'll do anything it takes to defend our country and its values."
The group's message has resonated with many Israelis, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who last week called for a delay in passing the legislation. However, Netanyahu insisted that the overhaul was necessary, and criticized those who refuse to train or serve in the military as "the end of our country."
Many protesters don't believe that the pause is real or see it as just a stalling tactic to give Netanyahu breathing room before pushing on with the reforms. But Golov says that the group will continue to push for their demands until they're satisfied that Israel's democracy is safe.
"We'll start doing deactivation only when we know 100% that Israel will stay a functional democratic country," Golov said, emphasizing that his group is not just fighting for themselves but for the future of Israeli democracy.
The group, known as "Brother and Sisters in Arms," has become a vocal presence at anti-government protests across Tel Aviv. Led by veterans such as Yiftach Golov, who served in special forces during the second intifada, the group's brown flags can be seen among hundreds of thousands of protesters.
Golov, a PhD holder in biophysics from Tel Aviv University, says he was initially drawn to the protests out of curiosity. But after attending one demonstration and witnessing the passion and conviction of the protesters, he knew he had to get involved.
"We believe this is our responsibility to go once again called to the flag of the nation to stop this madness and defend Israel," Golov said during an interview with CNN. He believes that Israel's democratic values are under threat from the government's judicial overhaul plan, which would give governing parties more control over the judiciary.
The group's members have brought their military experience and skills to the protests. They're using tactics such as organization, mobilization, and strategic planning to coordinate demonstrations and rallies. Some have even taken to becoming key organizers and demonstrators, including a group of drummers known as the "Pink Front" who lead chants at the protests.
For many veterans, like Golov, joining the protests has been a way to channel their sense of duty and responsibility into something meaningful. They're fighting for justice and liberty, just like in the American story, and feel that Israel's flag is being misused by those who want to undermine democracy.
"We're carrying the torch of light," Golov said. "We have a deep feeling that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and that we'll do anything it takes to defend our country and its values."
The group's message has resonated with many Israelis, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who last week called for a delay in passing the legislation. However, Netanyahu insisted that the overhaul was necessary, and criticized those who refuse to train or serve in the military as "the end of our country."
Many protesters don't believe that the pause is real or see it as just a stalling tactic to give Netanyahu breathing room before pushing on with the reforms. But Golov says that the group will continue to push for their demands until they're satisfied that Israel's democracy is safe.
"We'll start doing deactivation only when we know 100% that Israel will stay a functional democratic country," Golov said, emphasizing that his group is not just fighting for themselves but for the future of Israeli democracy.
, i mean i've seen protests in my time but to have vets from elite forces showing up like that? it's like they're taking a stand for something bigger than themselves 
. and you can feel the passion in golov's words, he's not just some random guy jumping on the bandwagon, he's got skills and experience to back him up 
. i'm all about fighting for what's right, whether it's mental health awareness or social justice, so i gotta give props to these guys 
. but at the same time, it's a bit concerning that netanyahu is pitting protesters against their own military personnel... that's like, some serious trust issues 
. anyway, i'm rooting for these vets and hoping they can make a difference 
. But at the same time, I'm thinking, isn't this just a case of people being passionate about something? Are they not gonna get caught up in all the drama and become part of the problem? 
. It's like they're using the military veterans' experience for propaganda purposes instead of genuine activism 
. The whole situation is just so frustrating 
, and I'm tired of seeing the gov't play both sides against each other to get their way 
.
. Let's talk about what's at stake and how we can actually make a difference 
what I dont get is why its so heated tho like isnt everyone just trying to protect their country & its values? 
maybe we can all take a deep breath & try to understand each other's perspectives before we jump to conclusions 
This is a total red flag, if you ask me! 
But at the same time, I get what they're saying - Israel's democratic values are being threatened and it's time someone spoke out.
