Battalion Commander Acknowledges Troops’ Struggles Over Gaza Humanitarian Mission.
In a candid and heartfelt message shared by journalist Amit Segal, a battalion commander stationed in the Gaza Strip addressed rising frustration among his soldiers tasked with overseeing the transfer of humanitarian aid into the region.
Recognizing the deep emotional toll of the mission, the commander began by validating the sentiments within his unit:
“I feel it’s important to speak to each of you directly as we take on this humanitarian aid assignment. I fully understand—and share—the difficult emotions this duty stirs. It is not easy to give food to those we consider our enemies.”
The commander openly acknowledged his personal opposition to the assignment, stating:
“We didn’t seek this mission. I too had hoped we wouldn’t be the ones assigned to it. Personally, I struggle with it just as you do.”
However, he reinforced the core value of military discipline and unity, stressing that once a mission is assigned, the battalion must execute it with professionalism—without compromising troop safety.
“From the moment we were given the order, we align. We fulfill our duty while ensuring the safety of our forces remains our top priority.”
He concluded by grounding the moment in a broader sense of national service and responsibility:
“We are here for the people of Israel—for our future in this land. In a functioning society, the military follows the directives of its political leadership. That is our role.”
The commander’s message reflects the complex moral terrain that soldiers often navigate during wartime, particularly when orders challenge their instincts and experiences on the battlefield.
