An Israeli military rabbi who previously called for the destruction of Gaza has been selected to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony, drawing criticism from rights groups and observers.
Avraham Zarbiv, a reservist rabbi, has publicly used language advocating large-scale destruction during the war. In one video, he said: “We will flatten you and destroy you,” and described operations as “destroy and advance, destroy and advance,” while also reportedly calling to “flatten Gaza”. He has also claimed to have overseen the demolition of dozens of homes in the enclave.
The annual torch-lighting ceremony is one of Israel’s most symbolic national events, honoring individuals for their contributions to the state. Critics argue that selecting Zarbiv risks legitimising extreme rhetoric at a time of heightened violence and humanitarian concern in Gaza.
Some analysts say the decision reflects a broader trend in which controversial figures linked to harsh wartime actions or rhetoric are publicly elevated. For instance, five Israeli soldiers who raped a Palestinian detainee on camera were paraded on Israeli TV, praised by officials as heroes, prompted protests in their favor, and were later released without charges—deepening concerns about accountability and the normalization of violence.
