Female IDF Reservists Report Sexual Harassment While Guarding Terrorists

A report by KAN News, as covered by The Jerusalem Post, reveals deeply disturbing allegations of sexual harassment faced by female IDF reservists guarding Nukhba terrorists at the Sde Teiman base. These brave women, who answered the call to serve in the difficult days following October 7th, have been subjected to degrading treatment, including invasive stares and inappropriate advances, while performing their duties.

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We would serve them food, cuff them, be with them for long hours, and during this time, they would masturbate in front of us, blow us kisses, and try to undress. Their gazes were degrading, stripping. It was unbearable.

The accounts paint a harrowing picture of vulnerability and distress. Soldiers described being forced into intimate situations, such as guarding terrorists during showers and handcuff exchanges, without adequate protection or separation. The psychological toll has been immense, with reservists reporting nightmares, crying, and a profound desire to escape the conditions. One soldier, speaking anonymously, stated, 'I didn’t enlist in the IDF for this... Take me to the battlefield, to war – just not to stand in front of terrorists, murderers, and rapists.'

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I didn’t enlist in the IDF for this. Take me to the battlefield, to war – just not to stand in front of terrorists, murderers, and rapists.

This situation is particularly egregious given the context. These are not ordinary detainees; they are terrorists responsible for horrific atrocities. That female soldiers are being placed in such compromising and abusive positions while guarding them is a failure of command and a betrayal of the women who serve. The report also indicates that when these concerns were raised with superiors, they were often ignored, and the soldiers were denied access to mental health professionals, exacerbating their trauma.

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We were required to guard them...even when they showered, during handcuff exchanges – situations that are difficult, disturbing, and humiliating for women. There was no proper separation, no protection for us.

From the perspective of The Jerusalem Post and, indeed, any Israeli citizen, this is an unacceptable situation. It raises critical questions about the IDF's protocols for handling high-risk detainees, particularly concerning the safety and dignity of its female soldiers. The State Comptroller's previous criticism in April 2024 regarding female cadets guarding Nukhba terrorists at another facility highlights a recurring issue. While the IDF is undoubtedly facing immense challenges, ensuring the well-being and protection of all its personnel, especially those in vulnerable situations, must be a non-negotiable priority. The refusal of these reservists to return to duty, despite the risk of being declared AWOL, speaks volumes about the severity of their experience and the urgent need for systemic change.

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This place [Sde Teiman] left a deep mark on me. I want to serve, want to contribute – but not there. Not under these conditions.