Border Guards Lack Kosher Catering Facilities at Syrian Post
Soldiers from Company G of Battalion 299, stationed at the Tel Hazeka outpost on the Syrian border, are currently facing difficulties in obtaining kosher meals. The base's kitchen, which has been run by a non-Jewish cook for the past three weeks without a kashrut supervisor, has violated agreements with the battalion's rabbinic authority and IDF regulations.
According to the soldiers, this situation has been ongoing for three weeks, and due to personnel shortages, logistical authorities have not been able to comply with the Chief Military Rabbi's guidelines requiring two Jewish cooks to be present at all times in a military kitchen.
The soldiers have approached the military rabbinate for a solution to their kashrut issues. The rabbinate found a certified Jewish cook willing to come to the outpost, but the battalion commander reportedly refused to approve his arrival, citing logistical reasons. This decision is contrary to previous agreements with the rabbinate and has left the entire company dependent on meal trays and temporary emergency food solutions during continuous operational activity.
The soldiers claim that this situation negatively affects their welfare and operational readiness, especially given the heightened tension and constant alert in the region. They argue that the lack of kosher meals is a significant issue, impacting their morale and ability to perform at their best.
The IDF Spokesperson has stated that the kitchen at the Tel Hazeka outpost adheres to standards and IDF regulations. However, it is unclear how the kitchen can be considered kosher without a kashrut supervisor.
This is not the first time such an issue has arisen. There has been a specific incident where the procedures were not followed at the Tel Hazeka outpost's kitchen. The soldiers hope that a resolution will be found soon, ensuring that they can maintain their religious observance while serving their country.
[1] Source: IDF Spokesperson Unit
- The soldiers' concerns about their kashrut issues extend beyond physical well-being, as they express that the lack of kosher meals impacts their mental health and overall health and wellness.
- In the midst of their workplace-wellness struggles, the soldiers from Company G of Battalion 299 advocate for improved fitness-and-exercise routines, suggesting that regular exercise could help alleviate stress and boost morale during their tense and demanding operational activities.
