Ever wanted to try and shoot a Palestinian? Israel has set up a military simulator which allows tourists to do just that.
Controversial fantasy “anti-terrorism” camps set up in the occupied West Bank provide visitors with the opportunity to play the role of Israeli forces in a variety of situations, ranging from an explosion at a Jerusalem marketplace, to a stabbing attack and sniper tournament, Haaretz reported.
The industry has seen a boom in recent years, with six such facilities opening across the country, all of which use live ammunition. Former high ranking officers in the army teach tourists combat skills.
Caliber 3, a camp set up in an illegal settlement, also includes a live demonstration of an attacker being taken down by police dogs, all for just $115 per person.
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Sharon Gat, the founder and CEO of the camp estimates that 15,000 to 25,000 visitors come to Caliber 3 each year. Most visitors are from the United States, but increasingly tourists from Brazil, Argentina, France, Italy, Russia and China, are showing interest in the experience.Gat, who commanded 10,000 troops during his time in the army, said the inspiration behind opening the academy to tourists was to show the capabilities of the Israeli state: “I said to myself that I am going to open this place to the public to show what a long way the Jewish people have come in 75 years.”
The tourism camps also serve in promoting the idea of the Israeli army as a moral force that is facing a real threat, primarily from Palestinians.