"It is shameful that a man who claims we should celebrate the death of others is the commander of soldiers." - A soldier at IDF Radio responds to the racist comment that one of his commanders posted on Facebook.
- Court rejects case brought against state by former IDF interrogator - Court rules statute of limitations expired, but criticizes authorities for concealing tapes that support claims brought against Israel by 'Captain George', who was responsible for interrogating Lebanese man Mustafa Dirani. Dirani complained George had subjected him to violence and even raped him resulting in George's ouster from the intelligence corps unit. George subsequently sued the state for NIS 5.5 million, arguing that he had been fired unjustly, and that this caused him great harm. (Haaretz+)
- Israeli population exceeds 8 million on eve of Independence Day - Jewish-Israelis make up about 75 percent of the population; 70 percent of them are native-born. In the past year, approximately 19,500 immigrants arrived and the country's birthrate came in at 1.8 percent. (Haaretz+ and Ynet)
- IDF acting as if one soldier's blood not equal to another's, says MK - Omer Bar-Lev calls newest change of protocol "severe ethical failure adding insult to injury." Protocol changed after chief of staff did not place flag on most recent fallen soldier because grave was in section for those with unclear Jewish identity. (Israel Hayom)
- Erdogan confirms plan to visit Gaza in late May - The Turkish leader, who has for years spoken of his desire to visit the Palestinian enclave, was expected to travel there this month but postponed his trip last week at the request of Washington, the Turkish daily Hurriyet and other local media reported. (Agencies, Haaretz)
- Deputy foreign minister tells U.S. Jews not to pressure Netanyahu - "Pressure from overseas should not guide the prime minister in his careful management of the diplomatic process," says Deputy Foreign Minister Ze'ev Elkin. Earlier this month, 100 prominent U.S. Jews called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take steps to show Israel's willingness to compromise for peace. (Israel Hayom)
- Israeli NGO to sue Palestinian Authority for terrorism - Organization urges terror victims to testify on Facebook for ICC lawsuit in 'Terrorizing Terror' campaign. Chairwoman: PA starting war against soldiers, we'll defend them. (Ynet)
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