A surprising decision has come from Israel. Under heavy rocket attacks from Yemen and the Gaza Strip, Israel has initiated a mass leave policy for commanders and soldiers. MASS LEAVE DECISION CRITICIZEDSenior Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) officers criticized Major General Rafi Milo, the Commander of the Home Front Command, for initiating a mass leave policy for commanders and soldiers while under intense attacks and with ongoing conflicts in active war zones. CONCERNS INCREASEDThe decision for leave, made amid a sharp increase in rocket fire from Yemen and the Gaza Strip over the past week, has raised concerns. Military officials warned that additional rocket launches from Gaza are likely as the Nahal Brigade's battalion combat team advances its operations in Beit Hanoun. NOT PRESENTED TO THE CHIEF OF STAFFMajor General Milo did not present his decision for approval to IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, despite the army declaring a state of war emergency. Military sources stated that although it was intended only for personnel, soldiers in the Rescue Brigade were also included in the leave arrangement. Sources from the Home Front Command reported that commanders have the authority to reduce activities in areas where operational readiness is not urgently required throughout the week. It was also emphasized that critical operational units, such as public information, rescue, and emergency duties, were not affected by the leave decision. MORALE BOOST FOR SOLDIERSCommanders were instructed that "leave may be granted to personnel who have not been able to use their annual leave due to a heavy workload in areas where operational activities can be reduced." One source added that 90% of the soldiers in command had not used their annual leave, and if not used, these leaves could be lost. RESPONSE TO CRITICISMSThe spokesperson for the Israeli Defense Forces made the following statement in response to the leave criticisms: "The Home Front Command maintains all necessary levels of preparedness. Operational units are fully active, and the Home Front Command battalions are conducting emergency operations along with defense and security duties. This is an activity for areas where urgent preparedness is not required and does not affect operational capabilities. The purpose of granting leave is to provide a short break for Home Front Command personnel who have not had such an opportunity for over a year, allowing them to spend time with their families."
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