A reserve unit from the Etzioni Brigade, which operates from an outpost near Kibbutz Gvulot, is sharply criticizing the military for conditions at the base, saying it has failed to learn the lessons of October 7 and continues to mistreat reserve soldiers.
The outpost is situated in the Eshkol Regional Council, within the southern division of the Gaza District.
The soldiers of the outpost, who had begun their mission about two weeks ago, were amazed by the lack of discipline and the poor conditions of service and security.
According to the soldiers, there is no perimeter fence at the outpost. Soldiers also say that there are Bedouins who regularly roam the area looking to loot military equipment, and have been successful in doing so.
The soldiers also claim that, according to procedure, the guard should conduct a perimeter patrol. However, while he is patrolling, there is no one to guard the entrance, and there are no outpost briefings at all.
The reserve soldiers say that the senior command that visits the post does not come from the entrance gate because of the uncertainty of its location.
Additionally, if an emergency occurs or reinforcements are needed, soldiers lack the necessary communication tools, such as phones, to contact senior command.
"Israel scouts run in a more orderly manner," the soldiers said.
In addition, they claimed that there is no organized procedure for storing food. The quality of the food is poor, primarily due to the inadequate storage conditions of the vegetables and food, which are left outside in the sun for extended periods.
IDF denies claims
"This is a temporary compound, where there are air-conditioned tents, showers with hot water, and generators, and the food is catered," an IDF spokesperson said in response to the claims.
"There are no known claims of problems with the food, and an inspection shows that there is quality and varied food," he added.
Following the appeal, the IDF's Technology and Logistics Directorate will conduct a thorough investigation, according to the spokesperson.
"Specific allegations are examined at all times and dealt with immediately. The commanders and professional bodies at the base are in continuous contact with the soldiers and are attentive to their needs," he said.
The issue with the fence is also being handled by the command, with "regular guards being brought out to the post throughout the day."
Another source from the IDF said that "the post has chemical toilets that are cleaned by the division every day, and in addition, there are toilet containers in the compound opposite."