The Rogatka Nightclub in Tel Aviv is making the press, but not in a positive light, banning IDF soldiers in uniform, labeling them in a most derogatory fashion.
The nightclub operators apparently have decided the soldiers in uniform are synonymous with “oppression, genocide and violence” and therefore, they are persona non grata in the popular Tel Aviv entertainment spot.
The situation came to light when two combat soldiers attempted to enter the club last week, but they were prevented from doing so in uniform. Seeking to soften the blow, officials at the entrance explained “it’s not personal” but the decision is an ideological one.
Seeking to investigate, Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) sent a combat soldier from an elite unit who entered and sat down at the bar, but shortly thereafter was instructed to leave. The soldier was told his appearance sickens them, and then asked to leave. He responded, “I risk my life to protect you and this is what I get in return?”
They explained “now you are in my home. Are you familiar with the Dromi Law (permitting one to fire at an intruder in one’s home?). Now pick yourself up and get out”.
Ichud Leumi MK Prof. Aryeh Eldad expressed outrage over the incident, stating, “This is self-hate and sickness that have reached monstrous proportions”. He is calling for a protest vigil outside the club to encourage patrons not to enter.
MK (Labor) Ofir Pines called on Attorney General Menachem Mazuz to open an investigation, adding “either the nightclub changes its policy or it should close its doors”. He stated the current situation violates laws prohibiting discrimination.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
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2 Responses
Sickening, but as always, both sides are wrong. In a free country you can open and close your club as you see fit. MK Eldad has the right idea — let the public sit outside the club and discourage anyone from entering. MK Pines, on the other hand, is an idiot. You don’t ask the Attorney General to open an investigation. But I wouldn’t be surprised if that were to happen.
I am ashamed that someone would not allow a soldier of your own country into an establishment in uniform. Even if you do not support zionism, the soldiers are protecting people like the owner from harm. I have been on many planes where an announcement was made that there was a man in uniform on the plane who needed to catch his connecting flight so he would be able to go home for his short leave, so please everyone sit down and wait for him to get off. He was given a round of applause and many people waited! I am not saying that everyone there supported the war on terrorism but they supported someone’s son who risked his life to protect yours. Show some respect.