IDF Chief of Staff addresses "Messiah patch" controversy, emphasizes unity and discipline

The IDF Chief of Staff responded to the controversy over the "Messiah patch," stating there is no issue with specific emblems but rather the importance of IDF unity and appearance. He emphasized that all soldiers rally around the Israeli flag, which he described as a Jewish, Zionist, and Israeli symbol that they swore allegiance to and are ready to die for. The Chief of Staff stressed that victory requires a disciplined, capable army with strong fighting spirit, citing Ben-Gurion's statement that "discipline for the army is like air for breathing." He said discipline and order begin with small details and are essential for effective functioning and mission fulfillment.