Israel Drops Charges in Soldier Abuse Case

0:00This is Corey, here with your quick two-minute global update. Israel's military has dropped charges against five soldiers accused of abusing a Palestinian detainee captured during the Gaza conflict. The case highlighted deep splits inside the country over how to handle such incidents with enemy prisoners. The decision stems from challenges in building a strong case, mainly because the detainee was released back to Gaza in last year's ceasefire deal. That is weakened to evidence needed for a fair trial. According to the military's new top legal officer, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the move, stressing that Israel needs to go after its foes, not pursue its brave troops. Right-wing groups, including some in his cabinet, had protested loudly against the original probe, even storming military sites. Tensions rose further when the previous chief legal officer leaked security footage of the alleged abuse to media outlets. She resigned over it and faced arrest, saying she acted to counter-attacks on the military's legal system.

1:00The military is now scaling back use of the detention camp involved. But rights organizations continue raising alarms about widespread claims of, mistreatment in Israeli facilities holding Palestinians. Palestinian officials have not commented so far. Quick thanks to today's sponsor, see the description for more. No earbuds, no headbands, no awkward sleeping positions, just a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I-A-SoliPillow.com