The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has opened a formal investigation into serious hazing allegations within its elite 136th Air Defense Battalion, responsible for operating Israel’s Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 missile defence systems.
According to Israeli media reports, including Ynet, around 10 new soldiers in the unit were subjected to weeks of alleged abuse by veteran soldiers. The accusations include physical assault, threats, and acts of sodomy carried out during so-called initiation ceremonies.
The IDF confirmed that its Military Police has detained several suspects as part of an ongoing investigation into what it described as “serious actions during initiation ceremonies of veteran soldiers against juniors.”
Some of the soldiers involved have reportedly claimed during questioning that the incidents occurred with mutual consent and were intended as jokes. Military prosecutors, however, are treating the case as one involving potential sex crimes, violence, and abuse.
The Israeli Air Force Commander, Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, is personally overseeing the investigation, reflecting the gravity with which the military is treating the matter.
Military Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) detectives are leading the inquiry. The suspects have already appeared before a military court, where extensions of their detention have been sought as the investigation continues.
The IDF has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on abuse and sexual misconduct. A statement from the military said, “The IDF condemns any form of violence, hazing, or inappropriate behaviour and will act decisively to enforce discipline and uphold the dignity of all its personnel.”
Support services have been made available to the affected soldiers through the IDF’s welfare system.
The case has drawn public attention due to the sensitive and high-profile nature of the 136th Battalion’s role in Israel’s national defence architecture.
Military analysts suggest the incident may prompt a wider review of disciplinary standards and initiation practices within elite IDF units.
