Eretz Yisroel Shelanu Interview: Menachem Bakosh, IDF Soldier Jailed for Half a Year Celebrates Release
The Crime: Protested Destruction of Yishuv. Accusation: Attempted Murder
Menachem Bakosh was on his way to fulfill his IDF Reserves duty when he heard that expulsion forces are assembled at his yishuv- Adei Ad- and decided to protect his home. He removed his army uniform and joined the protest. The reaction? He was thrown into jail.
On Sunday, Menachem Bakosh, father of a 1/2 year old baby, celebrated his release from Prison 4 in Tzrifin, after being arrested in the Adei Ad outpost where he resides.
He was arrested during the expulsion operation in the yishuv. On Monday Menachem recited the Gomel blessing upon being called up to the Torah. His parents hosted a festive thanksgiving meal at their home in Beit-El, and many well-wishers came to celebrate with the family. MK Michael Ben Ari, of the Eretz Yisroel Shelanu faction, was on hand to encourage and support the Bakosh family, which gives their all to save and protect Eretz Yisroel.
Menachem, what brought your being jailed?
"It was the 20th of Cheshvan, and I was on the way to the army base. I received a message that a large contingent of Yasam police is coming close to my home in the Adei Ad outpost, near Shvut Rachel. I made a u-turn. There was a container that six guys lived in. Obviously, I opposed the eviction. I removed my army uniform while protesting, but I was already being harassed and threatened with a trial and a prolonged jail term. I was framed for throwing stones at a soldier, which the camera's evidence proves is false. They tried to accuse me of attempted murder! No more and no less! After lengthy sessions I was sentenced to a half a year in Prison 4, and after getting one third off, I was released.
How did you feel being falsely accused?
I was protesting because I live in this outpost. It is understood that I didn't lift a hand to anyone, and this whole trial just clarified exactly what the judicial system in this country is worth. It's no wonder why the leaders look like they do. The trial was supposed to weaken our stance in the struggle for Eretz Yisroel. They knew that they were jailing a father of a baby for a half a year, although he was completely innocent.
Are you in need of assistance?
"Of course, this entire situation, aside from living here with self sacrifice, has cause us financial difficulties, with legal fees, etc. We will thank anyone who can lend a helping hand, especially now, Erev Pesach.
How were you treated in jail?
"I had much support from all those who heard about me- which shows that the nation is with us. As a Lubavitcher Chossid, I saw this as Shlichus, and I taught Gemorra and Chassidus and mivtzoim with the soldiers. Being a Shliach gave me much support. I have no doubt that in the merit of protecting Eretz Yisroel and millions of Jews by living in the settlements, as the Rebbe says, we will merit immediately to be redeemed by Moshiach Tzidkeinu.
Rabbi Zalman Melamed, Rabbi of Beit El and one of the Rabbonim of Eretz Yisroel, it is imperative to support the family that sacrifices itself for Eretz Yisroel, and is in dire financial straits. Those who wish to assist the Bakosh family for their Pesach needs can send their donations to Mateh Haolami (SOS- Israel), p.o.b 1025, Kiryat Malachi 83109, and specify that this donation is for the Bakosh Family. |
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