Israeli Government Sparks Outrage Over Rabbi Linked to Gaza Destruction
Israel’s decision to honor a rabbi known for demolishing Palestinian homes is triggering backlash just hours before a major national ceremony.
Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, a reservist who filmed himself bulldozing buildings in Gaza, has been selected to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day event, according to The Guardian and Al Jazeera. The role is considered one of the country’s highest symbolic honors.
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The controversy centers on Zarbiv’s own statements and videos, including claims he destroyed “50 homes a week” and rhetoric about flattening entire areas. Human rights group B’Tselem said the selection signals acceptance of “genocide” and war crimes.
Israeli officials pushed back. Culture minister Miriam Regev defended the decision, calling Zarbiv’s actions “inspirational,” while the Israeli military publicly distanced itself from the choice.
The moment is drawing global scrutiny as the Gaza war continues, with UN estimates showing most homes in the territory have been damaged or destroyed.
The ceremony is now unfolding under heightened political and international pressure.
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