Ono Scholar Interviewed Regarding High Percentage of Ethiopian Soldiers Killed
Since the beginning of the Iron Swords War, begun by Hamas on October 7, 2023, Ethiopian-Israeli soldiers have fallen at a rate double their percentage in the population. Israel Army Radio, Galei Tzahal, invited Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom, founder and director of Ono Academic College’s International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry, to discuss the significance of this statistic on the morning news show, “Good Morning Israel,” hosted by Effie Trigger.
Rabbi Dr. Sharon said that it is not wise to divide the fallen by their ethnic or religious background. However, he wanted to note the fact that so many Ethiopian Israeli soldiers have achieved such success in the Israel Defense Forces, rising in rank and responsibility. As such, they are more likely to be killed in battle as according to Israeli military doctrine, combat leaders place themselves in dangerous situations so as to better direct and inspire their troops. Rabbi Dr. Sharon said that this is an example of the fact that when you give Ethiopian-Israelis a chance to compete on an equal footing, they excel and are recognized. He believes that Ethiopian-Israelis should be given the oppoprtunity to compete on equal footing in civilian life as well.
To listen to the entire interview, click here: https://www.ifatmediasite.com/VT/ItemNew.aspx?ID=12646782
