Israeli soldiers have looted large amounts of civilian property from homes and shops in southern Lebanon with the knowledge of their commanders, the daily Haaretz reported on Thursday.
Israel has announced full control over 55 villages in southern Lebanon as part of what it calls the “Yellow Line,” barring residents from returning and targeting those who approach.
Looting is not a new phenomenon among Israeli soldiers, with previous Israeli reports over the past two years documenting similar incidents during the Gaza war.
Haaretz cited unnamed soldiers and field commanders stationed in southern Lebanon as saying regular and reserve troops are looting civilian property from homes and shops.
“Theft of motorcycles, televisions, paintings, sofas and carpets has become a widespread and recurring phenomenon,” the newspaper said.
It added that both senior and field commanders are aware of the looting but have taken no disciplinary action to stop it.
According to the testimonies, soldiers load stolen items into their vehicles upon leaving Lebanon without attempting to conceal them.
Related
‘Crazy phenomenon’
One soldier described the looting as “a crazy phenomenon.”
“Anyone who takes something like TVs, cigarettes, tools or anything else immediately puts it in their car or hides it aside. It’s no secret. Everyone sees and understands,” he said.
Other soldiers said some commanders ignore the practice, while others condemn it but refrain from punishing those involved.
“Battalion and brigade commanders know everything and they don’t complain or get angry,” one soldier said.
Another soldier said a commander once caught troops leaving with stolen items, shouted at them and ordered them to discard the goods, but no investigation followed.
A third soldier said commanders acknowledge the seriousness of the issue but take no action.
Soldiers said the looting has worsened due to a lack of oversight.
“When there is no punishment, the message is clear. If they expelled or jailed someone or deployed military police at the border, it would stop immediately,” one said.
Related
