Israeli rabbi who bulldozed Gaza honoured as torchbearer

In April 2026, the Israeli military announced disciplinary action against soldiers involved in the destruction of a Jesus statue in Debl, a Christian village in southern Lebanon near the Israeli border. The incident, which involved a soldier using a sledgehammer to damage the statue, was photographed and shared online, drawing widespread condemnation. As a result of an inquiry, the soldier who damaged the statue and the one who photographed it will each receive 30 days of military detention and be removed from combat duty. Six additional soldiers present at the scene who did not intervene or report the incident have been summoned for clarification discussions. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions, with Israel conducting air strikes and invading southern Lebanon after Hezbollah entered the Middle East war in support of Iran.

Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, known for demolishing Palestinian homes in Gaza, was chosen as one of 14 people to light a torch at Israel's independence day celebration. Zarbiv, a reservist who drives an armored bulldozer, gained notoriety through videos documenting his destruction in Gaza, using inflammatory rhetoric. His selection has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who view it as an endorsement of dehumanization and systematic destruction of Palestinian life. Cabinet minister Miriam Regev defended the choice, citing Zarbiv's dual role as a rabbi and soldier as "inspirational." Critics argue that honoring Zarbiv undermines Israel's defense against genocide charges in international courts and reflects a loss of moral direction.

Avraham Zarbiv, an Israeli rabbi, was honoured as a torchbearer on Israel's Independence Day. Rabbi Zarbiv gained notoriety for documenting his involvement in bulldozing Gaza. On this occasion, he was recognized for his role in the country's founding. The event took place in Israel, where Rabbi Zarbiv is based. His actions, which were widely reported and sparked controversy, have been subject to public scrutiny. Rabbi Zarbiv's honour reflects his connection to Israel's history and significance.

Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, known for filming himself demolishing Palestinian buildings and reciting religious verses, has been selected to light a torch at Israel's Independence Day celebration. The annual ceremony commemorates the country's establishment in 1948. Zarbiv gained notoriety in 2024 for his actions in Gaza, including throwing grenades at Palestinians and demolishing homes, leading to his name becoming synonymous with demolition. Despite the Israeli military distancing itself from Zarbiv, he was chosen to participate in the ceremony held at Theodor Herzl's resting place. Zarbiv has also filmed himself participating in the demolition of homes in southern Lebanon.