Heritage Minister Amichay Eliyahu, a member of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, recently sparked controversy by questioning the suitability of anti-government protesters for combat roles within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Eliyahu suggested that individuals who participate in the 'Kaplan' rallies—a reference to the site of frequent anti-government demonstrations—would not be effective in battle, implying a lack of commitment or appropriate mindset for military service.

The comments have triggered a sharp rebuke from multiple sectors of Israeli society. Opposition leaders have criticized the minister for politicizing military service and questioning the patriotism of citizens who hold different political views. Furthermore, the remarks were met with intense anger from bereaved families of fallen soldiers who had previously attended the anti-government rallies. These families argued that the minister’s comments dishonor the memory of their children, who served in combat roles despite their political affiliations.

While the Times of Israel reports the incident as a significant point of friction between the government and the protest movement, the scope of the minister's official authority regarding IDF recruitment policy remains unchanged. The conflict highlights the ongoing tension in Israel between political activism and the national consensus surrounding military service.