The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on 26/4 that it has launched an investigation into allegations published two days prior by Haaretz. The report included anonymous testimonies from Israeli soldiers stationed in southern Lebanon, describing widespread looting.

Witnesses reported that their comrades took various items left behind by Lebanese civilians who had evacuated their homes and shops. These items included televisions, gold bars, paintings, tools, and cigarettes. Some soldiers stated they openly loaded stolen goods onto vehicles when leaving Lebanon, without any attempt to conceal them.

One witness described commanding officers being aware of the situation but failing to intervene. This behavior was observed among both regular forces and reservists deployed to the field.

“In my unit, they didn't even comment or show anger. Battalion and brigade commanders knew everything”, one soldier stated, suggesting that discipline within the IDF has deteriorated and is difficult to enforce.

An Israeli army Merkava tank at a position near the border with Lebanon in November 2024. Photo: AFP

In a statement sent to CNN, the IDF announced it would "examine" the allegations. The Israeli military reiterated that all acts of damage to civilian property and looting are strictly prohibited and will be dealt with severely according to law. Disciplinary and criminal measures will be applied when sufficient evidence is gathered. Military police are currently conducting checks at northern border crossings as soldiers depart the combat zone.

This is the latest in a series of disciplinary misconduct allegations involving Israeli soldiers in Lebanon. Earlier this month, one soldier was photographed destroying a statue of Jesus in the area. Soldiers suggest that a lack of supervision and punishment has led to an increase in deviant behavior.

Some military sources attribute the decline in discipline to the prolonged conflict, extending from the Gaza conflict. Commanders are reportedly hesitant to open investigations into reservists to maintain troop numbers for subsequent deployments.

The locations of Israel, Lebanon, and the "Golden Road" area controlled by the IDF. Graphic: Irish Times

Many residential areas were abandoned after Hezbollah forces withdrew northward, allowing soldiers to be stationed for extended periods in deserted zones. Israel has declared full control over 55 villages in southern Lebanon, within an area the IDF designates as the "Golden Road" and prohibits residents from returning.

Lebanon's Ministry of Health reported on 27/4 that the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, ongoing since early March, has resulted in over 2,500 deaths and more than 7,700 injuries. Currently, over 120,000 people are sheltering in evacuation centers.

Israel and Hezbollah reached a 10-day ceasefire agreement earlier in April. By 23/4, the ceasefire mechanism in Lebanese territory was agreed upon by the parties to be extended for three more weeks.

By Thanh Danh (Source: Fox, Anadolu)