IDF observers forced to endure harassment, poor conditions

Lack of sleep, according to the report, is the biggest problem currently facing observers, who are predominantly women.

The living and working conditions of IDF observers protecting Israel’s southern borders at the Ketziot base are dismal, according to a report released Thursday. Maariv report.

IDF observers do not receive hot meals while on duty, according to the report. The parents of the observers said Maariv that observers are prohibited from leaving the dining room to eat during their shift, when they cannot leave their post to go to the dining room.

The staff room on their base is completely empty, without furniture, so it cannot be used for leisure or work.

The report added that the soldiers, who only return home every 18 days, are forced to wear dirty uniforms because the base’s laundry facility has been broken for several weeks. Many toilets are also broken, parents also said. Maariv.

Lack of sleep due to harassment from male soldiers

According to the report, lack of sleep is the biggest problem currently facing observers, who are predominantly women. They work all night and cannot sleep properly outside of working hours because the male soldiers, stationed near the women, make a lot of noise and even throw objects at the observers’ windows.

In response to these complaints, the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit stated:

“THE [female] The soldiers moved into new, renovated housing about a month ago. As part of the transition process, furniture is expected to arrive for their use, including a washing machine and dryer. Until now, the soldiers used a washing machine in the old building. The machine was unplugged yesterday and a suitable solution will be provided as soon as possible. »

“There are no known problems with the food supply,” the Israeli army added. “In addition to the dining room, servicemen have access to an independent kitchen with equipment and ingredients for cooking… The issue of repairing broken toilets is being resolved.”

Finally, responding to complaints of harassment by male soldiers, the IDF said that “a discussion took place to adjust the behavior of all soldiers on base accordingly.”