"Crossing a Red Line"
IDF Chief Condemns Violent Attack on Hasmonean Brigade Soldiers
IDF Chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir condemns violent assault by extremist Haredim on Hasmonean Brigade soldiers at Bnei Brak event, calling attack a "red line" as three soldiers evacuated to hospital amid ongoing tensions over ultra-Orthodox enlistment.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir issued a forceful condemnation after extremist Haredi protesters violently attacked soldiers from the Hasmonean Brigade during a parent appreciation event in Bnei Brak.
The assault occurred during a recognition conference for families of ultra-Orthodox recruits, when several demonstrators stormed the venue with the intent to disrupt the proceedings. Protesters reportedly acted violently toward soldiers and commanders before police intervened to restore order and shut down the event.
Three soldiers were evacuated to a hospital for medical evaluation, though no serious injuries were reported.
Following the incident, Zamir spoke directly with Col. Avinoam Emuna, commander of the Hasmonean Brigade, to express his full support for the unit's personnel.
"Violence against IDF commanders and soldiers is crossing a red line and has no place in Israeli society," Zamir stated, according to military sources.
The Chief of Staff emphasized the critical importance of the brigade's mission to integrate Haredi men into military service while maintaining their religious observances. He expressed frustration that such attacks occur while the military is engaged in active combat operations with heavy demands on both regular and reserve forces.
"It pains me that at this time, when the IDF is engaged in fighting and the load on those serving is immense, some choose to harm those contributing greatly to the State of Israel," Zamir said.
The IDF issued an official statement strongly denouncing any violence against its personnel and reaffirming its commitment to the Hasmonean Brigade's mission.
Police confirmed the disturbance was quickly contained, with the brigade commander safely escorted from the scene. No immediate arrests were reported.
The incident reflects ongoing tensions surrounding Haredi military integration, echoing similar protests against ultra-Orthodox enlistment that occurred in April 2025, which also drew sharp rebukes from military leadership.
The Hasmonean Brigade was established to provide a framework for religious soldiers to serve while maintaining their lifestyle and religious observances, but remains controversial among some segments of the ultra-Orthodox community who oppose any military service.