Israeli elite pilots protest.
March 7, 2023Tweet
(RT) βΈ» Reservists from an elite Israeli Air Force fighter jet squadron are boycotting a regular training exercise due to growing discontent over judicial reforms planned by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. 37 of the 40 reservists serving in the 69th fighter squadron said last Sunday that they would boycott a training session in solidarity with anti-reform protesters. On Tuesday, the pilots softened their stance and announced that they would report to the unit to hold a discussion on the political developments with their commanders. They have full confidence in their commanders and will continue to serve the Jewish and democratic State of Israel as long as it is required. The 69th Israeli Air Force Squadron, known as 'The Hammers', has decided to stop for one day of scheduled training to talk about the worrying processes the state is experiencing.
This protest is part of a growing number of Israel Defense Force (IDF) units joining the judicial reform demonstrations, with members also threatening to boycott exercises. On Monday, Netanyahu slammed the reservists' protest, saying it "threatens the foundations of our existence" and has "no place in our ranks." Around 6,000 IDF reservists signed a petition affirming their commitment to service and demanding the army be kept independent of politics.
Israeli Elite-pilots Air-force