Israel unveils a dedicated legal defense system to protect IDF soldiers and their families from targeted detentions and interrogations abroad.
Tel Aviv, July 17, 2025 – In a strategic move prompted by mounting legal threats abroad, the Military Advocate General’s Office has announced the creation of a first-of-its-kind international legal defense framework to support IDF soldiers detained or questioned overseas due to their service.
According to a report by Channel 12 News, the initiative aims to offer rapid-response legal aid to both active-duty and former IDF personnel who face politically motivated detentions, as well as full support for their families.
The move comes amid growing incidents since the October 7 Hamas massacre, which escalated into a full-scale conflict in Gaza. Israeli authorities have noted that rank-and-file soldiers are increasingly becoming legal targets — not just high-ranking officers.
Just this week, an IDF soldier and an Israeli civilian attending a cultural festival in Belgium were detained for questioning following a complaint by the Hind Rajab Foundation, a pro-Palestinian legal group known for targeting Israeli troops.
In recent months, several Israeli travelers—some with prior IDF service—have fled countries abruptly, fearing arrest or harassment.
To combat this growing legal threat, the new support mechanism will include:
- Dedicated military legal advisors assigned to soldiers facing overseas interrogation or detention.
- Coordination with local legal counsel in the foreign country.
- Family guidance teams offering emotional and legal support.
- A real-time liaison unit between the soldier, their local attorney, and Israeli defense authorities.
Led by the Military Advocate General, the initiative ensures that no soldier stands alone if targeted abroad. Legal protections will extend beyond active duty, potentially covering reservists and veterans traveling internationally.
