Lawsuit Filed by Druze Reservist Over ‘Nukhba Terrorist’ Remark at IDF Ceremony

Master Sgt. (res.) Amal Atila, a decorated Druze reservist who served over 200 days during the Gaza war, has filed a defamation lawsuit against a senior officer in the Israel Air Force after being publicly insulted at a military ceremony. According to court filings, Atila was awarded a new rank in May 2024 at the Tel Nof Air Force Base only to be told in front of dozens of fellow soldiers, “You look like a Nukhba terrorist.”

The remark, referencing Hamas’s elite terror unit responsible for the October 7 atrocities, left Atila stunned. “I was in shock,” he told Israeli media. “I lowered my head and was ashamed. Everyone was laughing.”

Despite his years of service including critical work refueling aircraft for strikes in Iran and Lebanon Atila says the incident has left a deep emotional scar. “I haven’t been willing to wear that rank since,” he said. “Why do I look like a Nukhba terrorist to him?”

Atila, who proudly bears a tattoo of the Israeli flag on his arm, said the comment not only undermined his dignity but betrayed the spirit of unity that binds Jewish and Druze soldiers in the IDF. “In my daily life, I protect this country. I love it wholeheartedly,” he said. “This was a deep wound.”

Though the officer later issued a private apology, Atila said it was insufficient. “He mocked me in public. He should have apologized in public,” he said.

Now, through Shimon Haan Law Offices, Atila is seeking NIS 150,000 in damages, citing serious harm to his dignity and reputation. His lawyer, Nimrod Haan, called the incident “one of the most degrading and offensive remarks ever directed at a loyal Druze soldier.”

“This intolerable comparison to murderous terrorists strikes at the very heart of the partnership between the Druze community and the State of Israel,” Haan stated. “The court must send a clear message that such statements will not be tolerated.”

Atila, a two-time recipient of the IDF’s Outstanding Soldier of the Base award, hopes his case will lead to broader cultural change within the army. “We want to win the war, not lose it. I was part of that effort. I expect the IDF to take this seriously and ensure it doesn’t happen to anyone else.”

This moment calls for renewed respect for every Israeli who wears the uniform especially those, like Atila, who give everything for the country they love.

Share this story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel’s defenders and those who stand with them.