IDF Rocked by Scandal: 7 Soldiers Arrested for Sexual Abuse Rituals in Elite Arrow Unit
Military Police investigating serious claims of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse disguised as “initiation games” within Israel’s air defense corps.
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Seven active-duty soldiers from the elite Arrow missile defense unit (Unit 136) were arrested Tuesday by Israel’s Military Police (CID) on suspicion of systematically abusing younger soldiers under the guise of “service-time hierarchy games.”
The allegations include prolonged physical and mental abuse, as well as sexual assault, including reported acts of sodomy.
The case surfaced after a single soldier came forward with a complaint, triggering an internal investigation. Suspects reportedly claimed the acts were “consensual” and “a joke,” but investigators are taking the charges seriously, especially given the severity of the alleged offenses.
The incidents may have occurred over several weeks. possibly during the recent conflict with Iran, a period in which the Arrow system played a central role in air defense operations. Due to the gravity of the case, Israeli Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar is personally overseeing developments.
The soldiers are expected to appear at the military court in Beit Lid for a detention hearing. The IDF said in a statement:
“This is a serious incident. The Air Force and senior commanders are studying the details in coordination with the Military Police. The IDF is conducting a thorough investigation and will ensure those involved are held accountable.”
The army added that support services from the Gender Affairs Unit (Yoalem) are available to all affected soldiers.