Yehuda Fuchs, the outgoing chief commander of IDF troops in the West Bank, expressed his disappointment in the country’s leadership during his resignation speech. He highlighted the rise of nationalist crime causing chaos and fear among Palestinian residents.
His three-year tenure is being taken over by Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth. Fuchs criticized the lack of action from the local and spiritual leadership in addressing the violence, stressing that silence only enables perpetrators.
Right-wing figures, including Religious Zionist Party MK Zvi Sukkot, condemned Fuchs’ remarks, while Otzma Yehudit MK Limor Son Har-Melech accused him of endangering security. However, Merav Michaeli praised Fuchs for his courage in calling out settler violence and leadership failures.
The contrasting reactions to Fuchs’ speech underscore the complex dynamics of security and leadership in the West Bank. Despite the controversies, his departure marks a significant shift in the region’s military command.