Breaking the Silence
Breaking the Silence is an Israeli non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 2004 by veterans of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).[1] The organization collects and publishes testimonies from IDF soldiers about their military service in the Israeli-occupied territories, with the aim of raising awareness about the realities of the occupation and promoting a public debate about its consequences.
Activities and Mission[edit | edit source]
Breaking the Silence's primary activity is collecting testimonies from IDF soldiers who have served in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. These testimonies often describe incidents of violence, abuse, and human rights violations against Palestinians. The organization publishes these testimonies in various formats, including reports, booklets, and online platforms.
In addition to collecting testimonies, Breaking the Silence conducts tours of Hebron and the South Hebron Hills, where participants can hear firsthand accounts from former soldiers and Palestinian residents about the situation on the ground. The organization also engages in public advocacy, educational activities, and legal work, both in Israel and internationally.
Role in Documenting IDF Practices[edit | edit source]
Breaking the Silence has played a role in documenting and publicizing various IDF practices, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven systems in military operations. The organization has cited testimonies from IDF soldiers to highlight the increasing reliance on AI in targeting decisions and the potential impact on civilian casualties.[1]
For example, Breaking the Silence has reported that the acceptable civilian casualty ratio in the IDF has grown significantly in recent years, with soldiers testifying that the number has risen to about 15 civilians for one low-level Hamas member and "exponentially higher" for mid- and high-level members.[1] This information is based on numerous testimonies collected by the organization from IDF soldiers.[1]
Controversies and Criticism[edit | edit source]
Breaking the Silence has faced criticism and opposition from various Israeli political figures, organizations, and individuals who accuse the organization of being anti-Israel, unpatriotic, and damaging to Israel's image. Some critics have questioned the credibility and accuracy of the testimonies collected by the organization, while others have accused Breaking the Silence of pursuing a political agenda aimed at delegitimizing the IDF and the State of Israel.
The Israeli government has taken measures to restrict Breaking the Silence's activities, including passing legislation that limits the organization's access to schools and attempts to discredit its work. Despite these challenges, Breaking the Silence continues to operate and maintain its position as a significant voice in the Israeli public discourse on the occupation and its consequences.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Dwoskin, Elizabeth (December 29, 2024). "Israel built an 'AI factory' for war. It unleashed it in Gaza". The Washington Post. Retrieved December 30, 2024.