Small Mutiny in Israel Military Causes Concerns

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Natanyahu voiced concern on Tuesday as military leaders tried to downplay the rebellion of Israel Defense Forces who refused to remove settlers from an outpost in the West Bank.

Their action prompted 15 right-wing legislators in the 120-member parliament to propose a bill that would bar the military from forcing troops to remove Jews from settlements in the occupied territory. via Reuters

“Our security and existence depend on the Israel Defense Forces,” Netanyahu told reporters. “If you promote disobedience, you will bring about the downfall of the state. There is no place for disobedience.”

The Israeli military has long been seen as off limits to political debate. The two soldiers were sentenced to 20 days in jail for their actions. Many complained that such a light punishment would encourage other resistors to challenge military policy. A