π️Lonny's War Update- October 482, 2023 - January 30, 2025 π️
π️Day 482 that 82 of our hostages in Hamas captivity
**There is nothing more important than getting them home! NOTHING!**
“I’ve never met them,But I miss them. I’ve never met them,but I think of them every second. I’ve never met them,but they are my family. BRING THEM HOME NOW!!!”
We’re waiting for you, all of you.
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.
#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.
#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope
There is no victory until all of the hostages are home!ΧΧΧ Χ Χ¦ΧΧΧ Χ’Χ Χ©ΧΧ ΧΧΧΧΧ€ΧΧ ΧΧΧΧͺ
Red Alerts - Missile, Rocket, Drone (UAV - unmanned aerial vehicles), and Terror Attacks and Death Announcements
*9:00am - north - Hostile aircraft
IDF intercepted a Hezbollah reconnaissance drone as provocations increase during an extended cease-fire; Senior officials stress that security remains Israel's responsibility, with operations underway to dismantle terror strongholds and recover hidden munitions along the border
For the first time since the cease-fire in the north took effect on November 27 last year, the IDF intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle launched toward Israel.
Hostage Updates
Hostage Updates
- Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud and Gadi Mozes safely back in Israel after mayhem at Khan Younis handover
Israel identifies five Thai hostages released by Hamas
- Agam Berger reunites with her family after 482 days in Hamas captivity
Meirav and Shlomi Berger met their daughter on Gaza border; From there, Agam and her parents were transferred by an Israeli Air Force helicopter to Rabin Medical Center, where she will reunite with four of her IDF lookout team who were released from Gaza on Saturday
After 482 days in captivity, the long-awaited moment finally arrived. Agam Berger, a 20-year-old IDF lookout kidnapped from her post in Nahal Oz on Oct. 7, was reunited with her family on Thursday afternoon after being released by Hamas.
The IDF released footage of Berger’s handover to IDF forces and the emotional reunion with her parents, Meirav and Shlomi, at a forward reception point. From there, she was flown by an Israeli Air Force helicopter to Rabin Medical Center, where she will join four fellow female soldiers who were freed from Hamas captivity on Saturday.
Full Article
Israel identifies five Thai hostages released by Hamas
Meirav and Shlomi Berger met their daughter on Gaza border; From there, Agam and her parents were transferred by an Israeli Air Force helicopter to Rabin Medical Center, where she will reunite with four of her IDF lookout team who were released from Gaza on Saturday
After 482 days in captivity, the long-awaited moment finally arrived. Agam Berger, a 20-year-old IDF lookout kidnapped from her post in Nahal Oz on Oct. 7, was reunited with her family on Thursday afternoon after being released by Hamas.
Full Article
Freed soldier Berger holds tearful reunion with previously released comrades
The military releases footage showing released hostage soldier Agam Berger meeting her four comrades who were freed from Hamas captivity last week.
Berger was brought to Rabin Medical Center, where Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag are staying following their release.
Freed hostage Agam Berger credits ‘faith,’ in message from chopper
New footage shows freed hostage Agam Berger and her parents in a helicopter on their way to Rabin Medical Center earlier today.
Berger holds up a sign on a dry-erase board reading “I chose a path of faith and I returned through a path of faith.”
“Thank you to all the people of Israel and its heroic IDF soldiers!” adds Berger, a surveillance soldier kidnapped with several other female troops on October 7. “There’s nobody like you in the world!”
Her mother, Merav Berger, notes that four comrades released on Saturday chose to stay in the hospital until her release so that they could be reunited.
Israel names the five Thai hostages who have been handed over from the Red Cross to the IDF along with Israelis Arbel Yehoud and Gadi Mozes.
The five Thai civilians, who were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers, are named as Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao and Surasak Lamnau, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity: Pinta Nattapong. Two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive. Video of the transfer to the Red Cross of the Thai Nationals
Netanyahu’s office says Israel received guarantees on avoiding mobs in future releases
Israel says it has received a guarantee from mediators that scenes of chaos at a handover of hostages in Khan Younis earlier today will not be repeated in future releases, after reports indicated that it had okayed a Palestinian prisoner release held up due to the mayhem.
“Following Prime Minister Netanyahu’s demand, the mediators made a commitment that our hostages will be guaranteed safe passageway in the next releases,” reads a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
“Israel insists that lessons will be learned and that the next rounds will have greater care in ensuring the safe return of our hostages,” it adds.
The message does not directly address the delay in releasing 110 Palestinian prisoners, which was held up following Israeli anger at the unruly mob that surrounded hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao and Surasak Lamnau as they were being handed over to the Red Cross.
Hebrew media reports cited Israeli officials saying that the delayed release of the prisoners was expected to start around 5 p.m. today.
- Israeli hostages to go free tomorrow: Arbel Yehoud, Agam Berger, Gadi Moshe Mozes
Left to right: Arbel Yehoud, 29, Agam Berger, 19, and Gadi Moshe Mozes, 80, are the hostages set for release on January 30, 2025 (Courtesy)
The Israeli hostages set to be released by Hamas tomorrow are Arbel Yehoud, 29, Agam Berger, 19, and Gadi Moshe Mozes, 80, Israeli officials say.
The names were given to Israel by Hamas via mediators Egypt and Qatar.
The families of the three hostages have been notified.
In addition, five Thai hostages will be freed by Hamas tomorrow, Israeli officials confirm. There are eight Thai hostages still in Gaza, along with one Nepalese and a Tanzanian. However, two of the Thai citizens have been declared dead, as has the Tanzanian.
Celebrated His 80th Birthday in Captivity and Survived 482 Days Under Harsh Conditions: The Story of Gadi Moses
Moses was included in the deal due to being part of the category of men over the age of 50 who fall under humanitarian considerations. His first wife, Margalit, was also kidnapped on October 7 from Kibbutz Nir Oz, and his partner, Efrat Katz, was killed by an IDF airstrike during Black Saturday. This is his story.
The third phase of the hostage deal and the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is expected to take place tomorrow (Thursday), following the receipt of a list from Hamas that included the names of Arbel Yehud and Agam Berger, who are set to be released along with Gadi Moses, an 80-year-old who was kidnapped to Gaza on October 7, along with six of his family members. The three survived in captivity for 482 days. Watch the report on Gadi Moses' family.
Moses was the first hostage from the Katz-Moses-Asher family to be abducted to Gaza during the brutal attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz on the morning of October 7. His partner, the late Efrat Katz, who was kidnapped from their shared home by terrorists, was killed during an Israeli Air Force strike that hit the vehicle she was in, along with the terrorists who were attempting to return to Gaza.
Doron Katz-Asher, the daughter of his late partner Efrat, was kidnapped along with her two young daughters, Aviv and Raz, who were also in the same vehicle but were not harmed by the gunfire. Moses' first wife, Margalit, was also kidnapped from Nir Oz and was released in the first hostage deal in November 2023, returning to Israel along with their granddaughters.
After returning from captivity after 49 days, Doron, Efrat Katz's daughter, spoke about her fear of being separated from her daughters, the longing for her mother who was killed, and regarding her partner, she said: "I can't truly rejoice. It's very difficult."
Doron’s half-brother, Ravid Katz, was murdered that same Saturday, and his body was retrieved by the IDF in July, while Gadi remained in captivity. In December 2023, the Islamic Jihad organization released the first footage confirming Moses was alive, along with fellow hostage Elad Katzir, who, like Moses, was a resident of Nir Oz. In April, an announcement was made regarding Katzir’s murder and the recovery of his body from Khan Yunis.
Gadi is an agronomist and a devoted farmer, a nature lover. Over the years, he guided and advanced agricultural projects in third-world countries with his vast knowledge. After retiring, he established a community vegetable garden, and as a wine enthusiast, he grew grapes as a hobby.
His family describes him as a warm, loving, and embracing family man. A beloved father and grandfather, dedicated and supportive. A firm believer in coexistence. "We see that he is in poor condition, and it only sharpens for us the urgency of releasing the hostages," his son said upon the publication of the video by the Islamic Jihad organization. link
- Israel Demands from Hamas: Provide Information on the Condition of Shiri Bibas and the Children
In Israel, there is a request to finally receive definitive and official information regarding the fate of Shiri, who was abducted on October 7 along with her children, Ariel and Kfir. As a result, a firm message on the matter was conveyed to the terrorist organization. The father of the family, Yarden, was abducted separately and is expected to be released in the first phase.
Ahead of the implementation of the third phase tomorrow (Thursday) as part of the first stage of the hostage deal, Israel is demanding a clear answer regarding the fate of Shiri Bibas and her children, Ariel and Kfir.
After 48 days since the outbreak of the war, Israel has sent a clear message to Hamas through mediators, stating that it demands information about the condition of the mother and the two children who were abducted on October 7. The goal is to close the circle and finally provide definitive and official information to the family.
The father, Yarden, was abducted separately to Gaza during the infiltration of Hamas terrorists into Kibbutz Nir Oz. He is expected to be released in the first phase of the deal due to what has been defined as his humanitarian condition.
Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir were supposed to be released in the initial stages of the hostage deal, according to the agreement that required that civilians and children be released before female soldiers. However, in the previous phases, the three were not released, and the same is expected for tomorrow. On Saturday, it appears that Hamas will release three male hostages.
The IDF spokesperson has already announced that there is grave concern for the fate of the mother and her children, whose abduction photo has become a symbol of Hamas' cruelty.
- Joshua arrived to study, Phongsak supported his daughter, Bipin deflected a grenade in a fortified shelter: The foreign citizens still in captivityIn captivity in Gaza, 10 foreign citizens are still being held: eight Thais, five of whom will be released tomorrow, and two from Nepal and Tanzania. Three were murdered. The agronomy student who had only been in Israel for a few weeks, the father who worked in agriculture to support his 15-year-old daughter, and the young man who acted heroically in a fortified shelter under fire. These are the stories of the foreigners caught in the inferno on October 7.
Phongsak. Sathin. Banawat. Pinta. Seryon. Bipin. Sulasak. Sontia. Sontisak. Joshua.
Ten out of the 90 hostages still held in Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip are foreign citizens who were abducted from their workplaces in the kibbutzim of the Gaza Envelope. Eight of them are Thai citizens, most of whom came to Israel to support their families. Two others came to Israel from Nepal and Tanzania. Five of the foreigners will be released tomorrow (Thursday) as part of the first phase of the deal, along with Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud, and Gadi Moses.
At this stage, Hamas has not announced which five foreign citizens will be released tomorrow, likely out of concern for misidentification. Their names will only be revealed at the transfer point where the hostages will be handed over. However, it is known that the five to be released are alive. Three other foreign citizens who were abducted have been declared deceased, and the fate of the remaining two is unclear at this time. Their release is not included in the agreement between Hamas and Israel, and Israel will not release prisoners in exchange for them.
About two weeks ago, in the final stretch before the deal was closed, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar spoke with the Thai Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, and Nepal's Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. Sa'ar suggested that they take immediate action with the mediators to secure the release of their citizens beyond the expected agreement, as had happened in the first hostage deal in November 2023. Following these discussions, diplomatic efforts were conducted by these countries with the mediators, leading to an agreement on the release of five Thais.
According to Israeli estimates, the reason the terrorist organization is now releasing the Thais is that it was waiting for the release of hostages from Nir Oz, who were abducted alongside the Thais—and in this phase, for the first time, hostages from the kibbutz will be freed. The Thais will be taken to Assaf Harofeh Hospital, as was done previously, where medical teams have specialized in treating them. The Thai government has sent a Thai doctor to assist in their care.
So far, 23 Thai hostages have been released following negotiations conducted by Thailand with several Arab and Muslim countries, including Hamas' main supporter, Iran, and not as part of the deal between Israel and the mediators. Forty-nine Thais were murdered in the massacre in the Gaza Envelope. Before the war, nearly 30,000 Thais worked in Israeli agriculture.
In Kibbutz Nir Oz, 11 Thai workers were murdered, five were abducted, and two returned to their families in the previous deal. After the massacre, the kibbutz chairwoman, Osnat Perry, sent a letter to the people of Thailand, to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, and to the Thai ambassador to Israel, Pannabha Chandraramya, thanking the Thai workers on behalf of the kibbutz.
"We are doing everything in our power to secure the safe release of all hostages. We regret that innocent Thai citizens have been harmed in this conflict and war that they have no connection to," she wrote.
**The letter was sent in the Thai language, and it mentioned the names of all the Thai citizens who were abducted and murdered from the Nir Oz community, including Sathin Suwankham (34), who was severely wounded during his abduction. Sathin’s mother learned about the abduction from a video she watched on Facebook.**
The other Thai hostages are Sulasak Lamnao (30), Phongsak Thainna (35), Banawat Saithiao (27)—who was shot and wounded in his leg on October 7—Pinta Natapong (35), and Seryon Watchara (32). Sontia Okkrasri (30) and Sontisak Rintalk (43) were murdered on the day of the massacre in the orchards of Kibbutz Be’eri—their bodies are still being held in the Gaza Strip.
According to the website *Untold Not Forgotten*, Phongsak, originally from Buriram Province in Thailand, had worked in Israel for just over six years. He came to Israel to work in agriculture and support his 15-year-old daughter.
In addition to the Thai hostages, Bipin Joshi (23) from Nepal and Joshua Loitu Molal (22) from Tanzania are also in captivity, both of whom came to Israel as agricultural students as part of their studies. Joshi and his Nepali friends had arrived in Israel only three weeks before October 7. They were housed in Kibbutz Alumim and were supposed to specialize in citrus fruit cultivation. On the morning of the massacre, they too woke up to the sound of rockets.
According to *The Wall Street Journal*, after hearing the rockets and the sound of gunfire approaching, Bipin realized this was a different kind of attack than the alarms he had known before. Due to the alarms, the Nepali and Thai citizens in the kibbutz scattered to different locations. One of the foreign citizens who lived near Bipin headed toward a cowshed and eventually found a hiding place above a refrigerator, writing to his wife: *"I will not return home."* Several Thais hid under wooden tables in the kitchen, near crates full of onions.
In the fortified shelter where they were packed shoulder to shoulder, 17 Nepali workers took a selfie, in which Bipin was seen leaning forward and smiling at the camera. Some were playing on their phones, and one even took a picture of Bipin and uploaded it to Facebook with the caption *"Bunker time."* As the sound of gunfire drew closer, panic-filled screams erupted in the shelter.
The moment Hamas terrorists entered the shelter, one of the students filming videos was shot dead, as was another who shouted, *"We are Nepalis."*
Later, two grenades were thrown inside, while the Nepalese friends huddled together near the wall. Bipin leaped forward, picked up one grenade, and threw it far away from them. But he did not manage to reach the second grenade in time, which exploded and left some of them wounded and unconscious.
Later, after the terrorists moved on, the farmers heard Israeli policemen calling for anyone who could reach a nearby kitchen. While some Nepalese civilians and a handful of Thai civilians fled to hiding places, Bipin gathered a few of his friends to reach the wounded who had been hurt by the grenade in order to help and rescue them. Bipin quickly sent a few messages to his cousin and wrote to him in English: "If something happens to me, you will have to take care of the family. Be strong and always look towards the future."
A young terrorist holding a rifle burst into the place and ordered Bipin and three Thai civilians to approach the door at gunpoint. Another terrorist picked up his phone to document the kidnapping. This is the last recorded footage in which Bipin was seen.
Bipin’s family and the government of Nepal are working tirelessly to raise awareness of his abduction and to bring about his release.
Ten students from Nepal were murdered on October 7 in the Gaza border region. The president of the Israeli college where they studied, Prof. Chaim Shaked from the "Chemdat" Academic College of Education in Sdot Negev, even traveled to visit the families in Nepal.
As mentioned, another hostage who came to Israel for studies was Mlell, an agronomy student from Tanzania. A few weeks after his abduction, it became known that he was murdered on October 7, and his body was taken to the Gaza Strip. Since then, his father, Luito, has been leading an international campaign to bring back his son, and he even traveled to Israel. He met with former Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, who presented the family with a certificate for the planting of 18 trees in his name and memory, in collaboration with the Jewish National Fund.
On October 7, another Tanzanian citizen was murdered—Mlell’s roommate, Clemens Felix Mtanga. Link
Freed soldier Berger holds tearful reunion with previously released comrades
The military releases footage showing released hostage soldier Agam Berger meeting her four comrades who were freed from Hamas captivity last week.
Berger was brought to Rabin Medical Center, where Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag are staying following their release.
Freed hostage Agam Berger credits ‘faith,’ in message from chopper
New footage shows freed hostage Agam Berger and her parents in a helicopter on their way to Rabin Medical Center earlier today.
Berger holds up a sign on a dry-erase board reading “I chose a path of faith and I returned through a path of faith.”
“Thank you to all the people of Israel and its heroic IDF soldiers!” adds Berger, a surveillance soldier kidnapped with several other female troops on October 7. “There’s nobody like you in the world!”
Her mother, Merav Berger, notes that four comrades released on Saturday chose to stay in the hospital until her release so that they could be reunited.
Israel names the five Thai hostages who have been handed over from the Red Cross to the IDF along with Israelis Arbel Yehoud and Gadi Mozes.
The five Thai civilians, who were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while working as agricultural laborers, are named as Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao and Surasak Lamnau, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
There is one other Thai hostage considered by Israel to be alive still in captivity: Pinta Nattapong. Two other Thai hostages, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, have been declared by Israel to be dead, with their bodies held captive. Video of the transfer to the Red Cross of the Thai Nationals
Netanyahu’s office says Israel received guarantees on avoiding mobs in future releases
Israel says it has received a guarantee from mediators that scenes of chaos at a handover of hostages in Khan Younis earlier today will not be repeated in future releases, after reports indicated that it had okayed a Palestinian prisoner release held up due to the mayhem.
“Following Prime Minister Netanyahu’s demand, the mediators made a commitment that our hostages will be guaranteed safe passageway in the next releases,” reads a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
“Israel insists that lessons will be learned and that the next rounds will have greater care in ensuring the safe return of our hostages,” it adds.
The message does not directly address the delay in releasing 110 Palestinian prisoners, which was held up following Israeli anger at the unruly mob that surrounded hostages Arbel Yehoud, Gadi Mozes, Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao and Surasak Lamnau as they were being handed over to the Red Cross.
Hebrew media reports cited Israeli officials saying that the delayed release of the prisoners was expected to start around 5 p.m. today.
Left to right: Arbel Yehoud, 29, Agam Berger, 19, and Gadi Moshe Mozes, 80, are the hostages set for release on January 30, 2025 (Courtesy)
The Israeli hostages set to be released by Hamas tomorrow are Arbel Yehoud, 29, Agam Berger, 19, and Gadi Moshe Mozes, 80, Israeli officials say.
The names were given to Israel by Hamas via mediators Egypt and Qatar.
The families of the three hostages have been notified.
Celebrated His 80th Birthday in Captivity and Survived 482 Days Under Harsh Conditions: The Story of Gadi Moses
Moses was included in the deal due to being part of the category of men over the age of 50 who fall under humanitarian considerations. His first wife, Margalit, was also kidnapped on October 7 from Kibbutz Nir Oz, and his partner, Efrat Katz, was killed by an IDF airstrike during Black Saturday. This is his story.
The third phase of the hostage deal and the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is expected to take place tomorrow (Thursday), following the receipt of a list from Hamas that included the names of Arbel Yehud and Agam Berger, who are set to be released along with Gadi Moses, an 80-year-old who was kidnapped to Gaza on October 7, along with six of his family members. The three survived in captivity for 482 days. Watch the report on Gadi Moses' family.
Moses was the first hostage from the Katz-Moses-Asher family to be abducted to Gaza during the brutal attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz on the morning of October 7. His partner, the late Efrat Katz, who was kidnapped from their shared home by terrorists, was killed during an Israeli Air Force strike that hit the vehicle she was in, along with the terrorists who were attempting to return to Gaza.
Doron Katz-Asher, the daughter of his late partner Efrat, was kidnapped along with her two young daughters, Aviv and Raz, who were also in the same vehicle but were not harmed by the gunfire. Moses' first wife, Margalit, was also kidnapped from Nir Oz and was released in the first hostage deal in November 2023, returning to Israel along with their granddaughters.
After returning from captivity after 49 days, Doron, Efrat Katz's daughter, spoke about her fear of being separated from her daughters, the longing for her mother who was killed, and regarding her partner, she said: "I can't truly rejoice. It's very difficult."
Doron’s half-brother, Ravid Katz, was murdered that same Saturday, and his body was retrieved by the IDF in July, while Gadi remained in captivity. In December 2023, the Islamic Jihad organization released the first footage confirming Moses was alive, along with fellow hostage Elad Katzir, who, like Moses, was a resident of Nir Oz. In April, an announcement was made regarding Katzir’s murder and the recovery of his body from Khan Yunis.
Gadi is an agronomist and a devoted farmer, a nature lover. Over the years, he guided and advanced agricultural projects in third-world countries with his vast knowledge. After retiring, he established a community vegetable garden, and as a wine enthusiast, he grew grapes as a hobby.
His family describes him as a warm, loving, and embracing family man. A beloved father and grandfather, dedicated and supportive. A firm believer in coexistence. "We see that he is in poor condition, and it only sharpens for us the urgency of releasing the hostages," his son said upon the publication of the video by the Islamic Jihad organization. link
Phongsak. Sathin. Banawat. Pinta. Seryon. Bipin. Sulasak. Sontia. Sontisak. Joshua.
Since then, his father, Luito, has been leading an international campaign to bring back his son, and he even traveled to Israel. He met with former Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, who presented the family with a certificate for the planting of 18 trees in his name and memory, in collaboration with the Jewish National Fund.
On October 7, another Tanzanian citizen was murdered—Mlell’s roommate, Clemens Felix Mtanga. Link
Gaza and the South
- Israel says it’s holding up release of Palestinian prisoners until safety of future releases can be guaranteed
Israel confirms that it has delayed a slated release of Palestinian prisoners in protest of the chaotic scenes at the handover of several hostages in Khan Younis earlier today.
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defense Minister Israel Katz, ordered a delay in the release of terrorists slated to be freed today — until the safe passage of our hostages can be guaranteed in the next releases,” Netanyahu’s office says in a statement.
“Israel demands that the mediators achieve this,” the statement adds.
The release today of three Israeli hostages comes in response to an Israeli demand following the failure of Hamas to free civilian Arbel Yehud on Saturday. Israel held up the opening of a road to northern Gaza until today’s release was announced.
- Terrorist filmed kidnapping Naama Levy eliminatedHamas terrorist Muhammad Abu Aseed who was filmed kidnapping Israeli surveillance soldier Naama Levy on October 7, 2023,was eliminated 4 months ago, the IDF confirmed minutes after hostage Agam Berger was freed
Hamas terrorist Muhammad Abu Aseed who was filmed kidnapping Israeli surveillance soldier Naama Levy on October 7, 2023, was eliminated in September, the IDF confirmed on Thursday, moments after Agam Berger was turned over to Israel. Naama was filmed being kidnapped, bleeding and barefoot.
According to reports in Gaza, Abu Aseed was killed in the al-Nasr neighborhood of Gaza City with three other terrorists in September. Seven people were wounded in that attack.
On Saturday, Naama Levy, along with her fellow observers Daniella Gilboa, Karina Ariev and Liri Elbag, were released from Hamas captivity. Today, Agam Berger, who was kidnapped with them to the Gaza Strip on October 7, was also released. In a cynical and cruel show by Hamas, Naama, Daniella, Karina and Liri were handed over to the Red Cross in the heart of Palestine Square in Gaza City, which was full of terrorists. They walked on their feet, waved goodbye - and smiled. They then arrived at the reception point in Re'im, and met with their parents.
Israel confirms that it has delayed a slated release of Palestinian prisoners in protest of the chaotic scenes at the handover of several hostages in Khan Younis earlier today.
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, together with Defense Minister Israel Katz, ordered a delay in the release of terrorists slated to be freed today — until the safe passage of our hostages can be guaranteed in the next releases,” Netanyahu’s office says in a statement.
“Israel demands that the mediators achieve this,” the statement adds.
The release today of three Israeli hostages comes in response to an Israeli demand following the failure of Hamas to free civilian Arbel Yehud on Saturday. Israel held up the opening of a road to northern Gaza until today’s release was announced.
Hamas terrorist Muhammad Abu Aseed who was filmed kidnapping Israeli surveillance soldier Naama Levy on October 7, 2023, was eliminated in September, the IDF confirmed on Thursday, moments after Agam Berger was turned over to Israel. Naama was filmed being kidnapped, bleeding and barefoot.
Northern Israel - Lebanon/Hizbollah/Syria
West Bank and Jerusalem and Terror attacks within Israel
- IDF says it has killed some 18 gunmen, detained over 60 in Jenin and Tulkarem raids.
The IDF says troops have killed some 18 gunmen and detained over 60 wanted Palestinians during an ongoing raid in Jenin and Tulkarem in the northern West Bank.
The offensive, dubbed Operation Iron Wall, was launched last week.
Over the past two days, the IDF says troops neutralized over 100 explosive devices in Jenin and seized numerous other weapons. In Tulkarem, another 30 bombs were neutralized and other weapons were captured, according to the military.
- MKs give preliminary nod to bill allowing Israelis to directly purchase West Bank land
The bill, sponsored by MK Moshe Solomon (Religious Zionism), has the backing of the Knesset Land of Israel Caucus and was written in collaboration with the pro-settlement Regavim group.
The bill’s advancement is “an important step on the path to strengthening settlement and restoring our basic right – the right to purchase land in our homeland,” declares Otzma Yehudit MK Limor Son Har-Melech, one of the co-chairs of the Land of Israel Caucus, following the vote. “Today, in the State of Israel, the homeland of the Jewish people, there are areas where Jews are discriminated against and cannot purchase land. This is an intolerable, immoral and un-Jewish situation. This law seeks to put an end to this discrimination, to restore to us the basic right to buy land in all parts of the Land of Israel.”
After the bill was approved by the Ministerial Committee on Legislation earlier this week, the Peace Now settlement watchdog organization called it “yet another annexation move initiated by the messianic right.”
“The proposal seeks to allow settlers to purchase land without any oversight throughout the West Bank, effectively making them ‘landlords’ in the West Bank in both symbolic and practical terms,” the dovish group said. Link as Peace Now, this is definitely another step towards full annexation
- Army says West Bank bombers among 10 killed in drone strike last night
The IDF says 10 Palestinians killed in a drone strike in the West Bank town of Tamun last night were all terror operatives, including two behind a deadly bombing attack.
According to the military, Omar Basharat and Muntaser Ali Muhammad Bani Odeh detonated a bomb in Tamun on January 20, which killed Sgt. First Class (res.) Eviatar Ben Yehuda and injured several others.
The pair were also behind additional shooting and bombing attacks in the West Bank, the army says. It does not detail allegations against the other eight.
Hamas says five of those killed in the drone strike were members of the terror group. video of the air strike
Politics and the War (general news)
- Sissi says Egypt ‘cannot take part’ in forced displacement of Gazans
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi says that the forced displacement of Gazans is an “injustice that we cannot take part in,” after US President Donald Trump floated a plan to move Palestinians from the territory to Egypt and Jordan.
“The constants of Egypt’s historic position on the Palestinian cause…. can never be compromised,” Sissi says during a news conference in Cairo with Kenyan President William Ruto.
Sissi says Egypt supports “the establishment of a Palestinian state and the preservation of its capabilities, particularly its people and its territory.”
He adds that Egypt is “determined to work with President Trump, who seeks to achieve the desired peace based on the two-state solution.
“We believe that President Trump is capable of fulfilling this long-awaited goal of establishing a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”
After the Israel-Hamas ceasefire came into force on January 19, Trump touted a plan to “clean out” the Gaza Strip, reiterating the idea on Monday as he called for Palestinians to move to “safer” locations such as Egypt or Jordan.
- 'Only Marwan Barghouti, in return for all the Israeli hostages,' terror victims' lawyer tells TML
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi says that the forced displacement of Gazans is an “injustice that we cannot take part in,” after US President Donald Trump floated a plan to move Palestinians from the territory to Egypt and Jordan.
“The constants of Egypt’s historic position on the Palestinian cause…. can never be compromised,” Sissi says during a news conference in Cairo with Kenyan President William Ruto.
Sissi says Egypt supports “the establishment of a Palestinian state and the preservation of its capabilities, particularly its people and its territory.”
He adds that Egypt is “determined to work with President Trump, who seeks to achieve the desired peace based on the two-state solution.
“We believe that President Trump is capable of fulfilling this long-awaited goal of establishing a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”
After the Israel-Hamas ceasefire came into force on January 19, Trump touted a plan to “clean out” the Gaza Strip, reiterating the idea on Monday as he called for Palestinians to move to “safer” locations such as Egypt or Jordan.
Amid Israel-Hamas hostage talks, speculation grows over freeing Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti. Praised as a unifier, his potential release faces backlash over past deadly attacks.
As negotiations for the second phase of the Israel-Hamas hostage swap continue, speculation is mounting over whether veteran Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti could be among those released.
While Hamas has reportedly reassured his family that he will be freed, Egypt and Qatar—both key mediators in the talks—are also pressuring Israel to agree to this. However, Israeli officials remain staunchly opposed to the idea, citing his past involvement in deadly attacks and concerns over his influence.
Hamas, Egypt, and Qatar demand Barghouti’s release
Barghouti, often referred to as the “Palestinian Mandela,” has long been considered a unifying figure among Palestinians, and Hamas’ recent assurances to his family have raised hopes that his freedom could be imminent. Arab Barghouti, his son, remains optimistic:
“We really trust that he will be released at the end of this because he belongs amongst the Palestinian people, and his influence is very positive for the Palestinian unity,” Barghouti said to The Media Line.
Meanwhile, Egyptian and Qatari officials have continued to pressure Israel, arguing that releasing Barghouti could help stabilize the Palestinian political landscape. His name has surfaced repeatedly in past prisoner exchange discussions, but Israel has consistently refused to consider his release.
Who Is Marwan Barghouti?
A prominent Palestinian political figure, Barghouti was a key player during the First and Second Intifadas, advocating for Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution. He joined Fatah in his youth and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of its most influential figures.
In the 1980s, he helped establish Tanzim, the military faction of Fatah, which played a significant role in organizing “resistance activities.” Despite his later imprisonment, he remains a symbol of Palestinian resistance and is seen by many as a potential future leader. He was sentenced in 2004 to five life sentences for his role in orchestrating attacks that killed Israelis. However, his supporters argue that he has always championed a political resolution to the conflict.
“My father is someone who believes in the two-state solution. He worked very hard in the 90s for it,” his son, Arab Barghouti, explained. “This is exactly why you will hear not only international or Palestinian leaders calling for his release but also Israeli leaders who understand his influence,” he added.
His influence extends beyond Palestine. Desmond Tutu and Jimmy Carter, among others, have called for his release and viewed him as a potential peacemaker.
Barghouti is also widely respected for authoring the Prisoners’ Document, a pivotal agreement that united all major Palestinian factions—including Fatah, Hamas, and Islamic Jihad—under a shared political vision. Drafted while he was in prison, this document was considered a groundbreaking effort toward Palestinian unity and strategic cooperation.
Criticism and concerns over his potential release
While many Palestinians see Barghouti as a leader who can unite factions and guide them toward political stability, his release remains deeply contentious in Israel. Critics highlight his conviction for attacks during the Intifadas, raising concerns about the precedent his release would set.
“It’s painful. It’s outrageous. Victims are outraged,” said Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, president of Shurat HaDin to The Media Line. “How can it be that someone responsible for so many deaths could walk free? This is not just about Barghouti—it’s about justice for all victims."
Darshan-Leitner, a prominent Israeli attorney and activist, has spent decades leading the legal battle against Palestinian and Islamic terrorist organizations through Shurat HaDin, an independent civil rights group based in Tel Aviv. Under her leadership, the organization has represented hundreds of terror victims in lawsuits against entities including Hamas, Hezbollah, the Palestinian Authority, Iran, Syria, and major financial institutions accused of funding terrorism. Shurat HaDin has secured over $1 billion in judgments, frozen more than $600 million in terrorist assets, and collected $120 million in payments for victims and their families.
“Barghouti is not just any prisoner,” the lawyer pointed out. “His release would send a message that acts of terror can be forgiven, which is a dangerous precedent. The pain of the victims' families cannot simply be ignored in political negotiations,” Darshan-Leitner added.
A father and a symbol
To his family, Barghouti is not just a political leader but a father and husband who has missed decades with his children. His youngest son, Arab, reminisced about his father’s warmth and guidance before his arrest:
“As a father, he’s always positive, always joking around, always smiling. He’s very demanding in terms of education and always talked about its importance,” he said.
“I remember visiting him in prison as a child, and those visits were difficult. We were only allowed short moments together, separated by thick glass, speaking through a telephone. But despite the distance, he always encouraged me to stay strong, to focus on education, and to never lose hope for a better future,” he added.
His wife, Fadwa Barghouti, has been instrumental in keeping his legacy alive. She led the international campaign for his release. Through her advocacy, Barghouti has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and has received honorary citizenship in several countries.
“Rather than complain or give up when he was arrested, my mother built a movement. She made sure his name would not be forgotten," Barghouti noted.
His possible return to Palestinian politics raises questions about his future role, as many in the West Bank view him as a viable leader.
“He’s very well respected. And I think this is the key reason why people love him,” his son said. “It’s because he has worked tirelessly for unity also from his prison cell,” he added.
Uncertainty over his release
Despite Hamas’ reassurances and the involvement of mediators, Barghouti’s release is far from certain. Israeli officials remain adamant that they will not free him, and the second stage of the hostage deal negotiations remains fraught with complexities.
“I don’t see how the second phase is going to work,” Darshan-Leitner noted. “The agreement states that it must end with Hamas no longer armed and no longer in power. That’s not realistic,” she added.
However, she suggested that Barghouti’s release could be considered if it guaranteed the return of all hostages.
“If Israel offers Marwan Barghouti, only Marwan Barghouti, in return for all the Israeli hostages, they should release him,” she said. “But if he is part of a broader deal with hundreds of convicted Palestinian prisoners, then no,” she added.
A future of hope and uncertainty
The potential release of Barghouti remains a deeply divisive issue. While his supporters see him as a future leader capable of guiding Palestinians toward unity and peace, his critics view him as a dangerous figure whose freedom could reignite violence.
Arab Barghouti, however, remains hopeful: “I trust that one day we will all wake up to a free Palestine, where Palestinians will all live in dignity, just as my father has always believed. Like any other nation.”
The Media Line contacted Barghouti's lawyer, but he declined to comment. link Marwan Barghouti is probably Israel's best chance for ending the Israel/Palestine conflict. According the polls, he has the best chance of being elected the head of the Palestinian Authority and has widespread support in the Palestinian street. He is a strong believer and promoter of a peaceful 2 state solution. My brother knows him well and has been in touch with him through his lawyers and son throughout his imprisonment. He can truly be the Palestinian Nelson Mandela if released from prison and, as opposed to the release of so many of the terrorist, he has chosen the path of peace and will make it happen. It is in Israel's best interest to release him and truly open a dialogue with him towards the future.
Investigative Report on the Failures of October 7 in Sderot: The Lack of Weapons, Locked Shelters, and the Massacre of the Elderly | Exclusive
22 members of the emergency response team left with only pistols against dozens of terrorists, M16 rifles that had been handed over to the Gaza Division even before the massacre, and the famous battle over the police station that prevented responses to other sites: The military investigation reveals a series of failures under the responsibility of the IDF, but blame is also directed at other entities—including the municipality and the city's security department. The IDF: "We are investigating the events." In Sderot, the blame is placed on the IDF and the city's former security officer.
In the coming weeks, a series of investigative reports on the events of October 7 conducted by the IDF in the Gaza border communities and the western Negev are expected to be published. The recurring theme, unsurprising and not new, is the assertion that the IDF failed in its defense. There is no dispute over this, and responsibility is being taken. Following the military investigation into what transpired in Kibbutz Be'eri, a public uproar ensued, leading the IDF to halt the publication of findings. However, the new Defense Minister, Israel Katz, demanded an acceleration of the work and the completion of the investigations and necessary follow-ups.
One of the upcoming reports, already in its final stages, covers the events in Sderot. The military investigation reveals a series of failures under the IDF’s responsibility, but not only. Blame is also directed at the local authority, the Sderot Municipality, and the city's security department. The investigation found that the local authority, accustomed to transitioning between routine and emergency situations for over two decades, was unable to respond effectively to the invasion of the city for several reasons:
22 members of the emergency response team were present in Sderot on October 7. Unlike the Gaza border communities adjacent to the fence, where M16 rifles were confiscated under official orders, the security department of the Sderot Municipality voluntarily handed over its weapons to the Gaza Division, without being instructed to do so. This transfer was carried out without the knowledge of Mayor Alon Davidi, and even afterward, no one reported to him that the emergency response team members had been left without automatic weapons. The weapons were stored in the armory of the Gaza Division for an extended period.
Although the Gaza Division recommended that the city’s security department retrieve the weapons and re-equip the emergency response team, this was not done and was ultimately neglected. The reason was the security department’s concern that the weapons might be stolen from the homes of team members. On that Saturday, the emergency response team members, who left their homes to defend the city, found themselves armed only with personal pistols against dozens of terrorists, effectively leaving them without the ability to engage effectively.
Even before October 7, the city’s security officer, Kobi Harush, had left his position for personal reasons, and he was replaced by Sderot resident Ronen Gabay, who had previously served as Mayor Alon Davidi's driver. Gabay began the process of retrieving the weapons that his predecessor had handed over to the emergency response team. However, the bureaucratic process took a long time because team members were required to install safes in their homes—a cost that was not budgeted, and it was unclear which entity was responsible for funding it.
Security officer Kobi Harush had left his position in the summer of 2022 after being diagnosed with cancer and requiring life-saving treatments. As a result, he was required by the army to return the weapons registered under his name, as per protocol, until a replacement was appointed on January 1, 2023. The appointment of Gabay was delayed for months by the Sderot Municipality, meaning there was no official to sign off on the weapons, and the issue remained unaddressed. Additionally, when approval was finally granted to rearm the emergency response team, bureaucracy once again complicated the process—this time due to the lack of safes for storing M16 rifles.
Investigative Report on the Failures of October 7 in Sderot: The Lack of Weapons, Locked Shelters, and the Massacre of the Elderly | Exclusive
22 members of the emergency response team left with only pistols against dozens of terrorists, M16 rifles that had been handed over to the Gaza Division even before the massacre, and the famous battle over the police station that prevented responses to other sites: The military investigation reveals a series of failures under the responsibility of the IDF, but blame is also directed at other entities—including the municipality and the city's security department. The IDF: "We are investigating the events." In Sderot, the blame is placed on the IDF and the city's former security officer.
In the coming weeks, a series of investigative reports on the events of October 7 conducted by the IDF in the Gaza border communities and the western Negev are expected to be published. The recurring theme, unsurprising and not new, is the assertion that the IDF failed in its defense. There is no dispute over this, and responsibility is being taken. Following the military investigation into what transpired in Kibbutz Be'eri, a public uproar ensued, leading the IDF to halt the publication of findings. However, the new Defense Minister, Israel Katz, demanded an acceleration of the work and the completion of the investigations and necessary follow-ups.
One of the upcoming reports, already in its final stages, covers the events in Sderot. The military investigation reveals a series of failures under the IDF’s responsibility, but not only. Blame is also directed at the local authority, the Sderot Municipality, and the city's security department. The investigation found that the local authority, accustomed to transitioning between routine and emergency situations for over two decades, was unable to respond effectively to the invasion of the city for several reasons:
22 members of the emergency response team were present in Sderot on October 7. Unlike the Gaza border communities adjacent to the fence, where M16 rifles were confiscated under official orders, the security department of the Sderot Municipality voluntarily handed over its weapons to the Gaza Division, without being instructed to do so. This transfer was carried out without the knowledge of Mayor Alon Davidi, and even afterward, no one reported to him that the emergency response team members had been left without automatic weapons. The weapons were stored in the armory of the Gaza Division for an extended period.
Although the Gaza Division recommended that the city’s security department retrieve the weapons and re-equip the emergency response team, this was not done and was ultimately neglected. The reason was the security department’s concern that the weapons might be stolen from the homes of team members. On that Saturday, the emergency response team members, who left their homes to defend the city, found themselves armed only with personal pistols against dozens of terrorists, effectively leaving them without the ability to engage effectively.
Even before October 7, the city’s security officer, Kobi Harush, had left his position for personal reasons, and he was replaced by Sderot resident Ronen Gabay, who had previously served as Mayor Alon Davidi's driver. Gabay began the process of retrieving the weapons that his predecessor had handed over to the emergency response team. However, the bureaucratic process took a long time because team members were required to install safes in their homes—a cost that was not budgeted, and it was unclear which entity was responsible for funding it.
Security officer Kobi Harush had left his position in the summer of 2022 after being diagnosed with cancer and requiring life-saving treatments. As a result, he was required by the army to return the weapons registered under his name, as per protocol, until a replacement was appointed on January 1, 2023. The appointment of Gabay was delayed for months by the Sderot Municipality, meaning there was no official to sign off on the weapons, and the issue remained unaddressed. Additionally, when approval was finally granted to rearm the emergency response team, bureaucracy once again complicated the process—this time due to the lack of safes for storing M16 rifles.
The Mayor Discovered the Weapon Shortage—on the Day of the Massacre
Another critical finding from the investigation: Mayor Alon Davidi was entirely unaware that the emergency response team lacked automatic weapons and only discovered this on the day of the attack. The investigation also found that Sderot’s emergency response team had not received the required training and drills—something that falls under the IDF’s responsibility. The security officer of Sderot, like all security officers, is subordinate to the IDF, and their work is coordinated accordingly.
The situation in Sderot today is different. After October 7, the city decided to establish an extensive security department, led by Eran Gaz, a former IDF lieutenant colonel with combat and intelligence experience. He established a significant and effective system for ensuring residents' security. The department now has a substantial budget and personnel allocations. It also oversees the municipal inspection unit, managed by Tal Mahi, comprising dozens of young inspectors, most of whom are veterans of IDF combat units.
New Organizational Structure and Internal Conflicts
As part of the conclusions drawn from October 7, it was decided that the city’s security officer would report directly to the new head of the security department. This means that security officer Gabay would now work under Lt. Col. (Res.) Gaz. This change led to numerous conflicts between the two, primarily over authority issues, to the point of explosive arguments and shouting in meetings. Ultimately, Mayor Davidi decided to remove Gabay from his position and held a disciplinary hearing for him two weeks ago. A process will now begin to find a new security officer. Gabay, for his part, intends to fight and is unlikely to give up the role easily—he may even take legal action.
It is worth noting that Gabay was seriously wounded on October 7 when he engaged and charged at terrorists who had barricaded themselves inside the Sderot police station. Regarding this famous battle, the investigation found that many police forces concentrated at the station, failed to disperse across the city, and did not respond to other critical locations. The reason appears to be that the officers had a clearer picture of what was happening at the station from their colleagues, while they were less aware of the other attack sites across the city.
Many officers in Sderot lost their lives defending the city, saving numerous residents in the process. As in other Gaza border communities, Sderot’s tragic outcome was mainly due to "few against many" battles, similar to what occurred in Kibbutz Be’eri and Kfar Aza. In Sderot, there were at least 11 active attack sites on October 7. Two are widely known: the police station battle and the horrific massacre at the bus stop, now referred to as the "Pensioners’ Massacre."
Why Were the Shelter Doors Locked?
Another crucial issue raised in the investigation is why the doors of the public bomb shelters remained locked across the city on the day of the massacre. A lawsuit filed by the families of the victims sheds light on this question. Recently, a major lawsuit was submitted to the Tel Aviv District Court on behalf of the families of the victims of the "Minibus of Death" incident in Sderot, in which 13 elderly residents were murdered. The lawsuit, amounting to 12 million shekels, was filed by eight families accusing the Sderot Municipality and the "Motorola" company of severe negligence that led to the victims' deaths due to a critical failure in the "Gatekeeper" smart shelter system.
In this tragic event, 13 elderly individuals were murdered in Sderot while en route to a spa day at the Dead Sea. At 6:30 a.m., amid a massive rocket barrage on the city, their minibus suffered a flat tire and became stranded near a municipal shelter.
This is a smart shelter operated by Motorola, which is supposed to open automatically when necessary and in the event of a "Red Alert" siren. It is equipped with a heavy door that can be locked from the inside. When the elderly individuals tried to enter it, the smart shelter malfunctioned, its doors remained locked, and all attempts by the elderly and passing police officers to open it failed. Minutes later, Hamas terrorists arrived at the scene in pickup trucks and massacred all 13 elderly individuals, who stood defenseless and unprotected beside the locked shelter.
Had the shelter opened, the lawsuit claims, the terrorists would have continued driving without noticing them, and their lives would have been saved. The lawsuit is filed on behalf of the families of the victims: Zinayda Beilin (of blessed memory), Lyudmila Furman (of blessed memory), Valery Friedman (of blessed memory), Igor Kortzer (of blessed memory), Nadezhda Sprivchkov (of blessed memory), Berta Shmiayev-Batsyan (of blessed memory), Michal Zerbailov (of blessed memory), and Lilia Giller (of blessed memory).
The IDF stated: "On October 7, the IDF failed in its mission. At the same time, IDF soldiers, reservists, emergency response squads, and civilians fought bravely across the Gaza Envelope. The findings presented in the article do not constitute an official IDF investigation. The IDF is conducting an inquiry into the events of October 7 and the circumstances leading up to them, including the battle in Sderot. Once the investigation is concluded, it will be transparently presented to the bereaved families, the residents, and subsequently to the public."
The Sderot Municipality stated: "On October 7, members of the emergency response squad and the security coordinator fought bravely in the city of Sderot, alongside IDF soldiers, police officers, commanders, reservists, and civilians who took part in the battle to stop the attack and save lives. Security coordinator Ronen Gabay was even wounded by terrorist gunfire during the battle at the police station, was evacuated by medical teams, and was hospitalized.
"Regarding the emergency response squad – first, it is important to note that an emergency response squad is, by definition, operated by the IDF and subordinate to it. The IDF also determines the personnel standard for the emergency response squad in each community and is responsible for ensuring that all its members have weapons, which unfortunately did not happen on the morning of October 7.
"As for the issue of weapons – in August 2022, at the conclusion of the previous security coordinator's tenure in the city, he decided to return the weapons and handed them back to the military. The city leadership was unaware of this, and from its perspective, the emergency response squad continued to function as usual. After appointing a new security coordinator—a process that took several months—the emergency response squad was reassembled, and several training sessions were conducted.
"As part of rebuilding the emergency response squad, forms were submitted to the Ministry of National Security to obtain firearm licenses as required, but the process was delayed due to non-compliance with conditions, specifically because the gun safes that should have been returned to the IDF by the previous security coordinator had not been. As a result, on October 7, members of the emergency response squad did not have long rifles in their possession but went out to fight with their handguns.
"Today, following the mayor’s demand and actions taken by the security department, the emergency response squad consists of more than 100 members, all equipped with long rifles and full gear. Regarding the shelter near the library – a lawsuit has been filed in court by the families of some of the victims, and therefore, we are unable to comment on the matter." link
The Region and the World
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Personal Stories
Mother of slain soldier whose murderers are freed: 'He would have blessed this deal'
Tzila Pikholtz's son Yaron was killed while serving in the IDF in 2001, and his Palestinian murderers are being released as part of the deal to bring the hostages home, but this does not change her mind about the worthiness of the arrangement; 'If Yaron were alive, he would have blessed this deal and hugged them'
"If bringing home living people is possible, life must take precedence over death," says Tzila Pikholtz, mother of the Staff Sergeant Yaron Pikholtz, who was killed while serving in the IDF in 2001 and whose murderers are among those being released in the hostage exchange deal.
Dark Legacy - The Abandonment of October 7th Hostages
The Bitter Fruit of PopulismProf. Mordechai (Mota) KremnitzerProfessor Emeritus, the Faculty of Law of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
There are several possible explanations for Netanyahu’s indifference towards the Israeli hostages and their families.On the most basic human level, one must compare his attitude towards the Israeli hostages with those of foreign politicians and heads of state to their kidnapped citizens and even to the Israeli citizens held captive. The difference is quite striking and points to Netanyahu’s hardened heart. This indifference characterizes more than just his treatment of the hostages; it characterizes his behavior towards the citizens of the Israeli South and North, exiled in their own land; towards the families of fallen soldiers who are not aligned with his political views; towards those risking their lives in the Israeli Defense Forces while he adamantly refuses to discuss strategies for the future, thereby leading to a loss of momentum, burnout and an attrition of military achievements. This is his approach to all Israeli citizens, imposing on them a never-ending war, seeking a “complete victory” - meaning his own survival as Prime Minister. How can someone so uncaring possibly understand what the hostages are going through at the hands of Hamas, let alone empathize and be horrified? The truth must be told: this is not surprising in the least. He who holds a populistic, authoritarian, nationalistic ideology is not one to prioritize humankind. His first and foremost priority, according to his principles, is the national collective, represented solely by the Prime Minister. It is therefore reasonable in his eyes to be willing to sacrifice humans for a cause far greater than them - the good of the nation and the good of the nation’s representative, which are one and the same. Moreover, populists do not see themselves as responsible for upholding the sanctity of human life and considering all humans to be born in God’s image. They are therefore not held down by morality, rationalism or truth. Netanyahu believes that his remaining in power as Prime Minister is for the good of the nation and that it justifies any price - including the lives of the hostages.The populist lives in a dichotomous reality: "Us” - the political camp led by the Prime Minister, and “Them” - those who are not part of that camp. “They” are considered bitter enemies who must be delegitimized and are fair game for any injustice. As fate would have it, he views all the hostages, collectively, as “Them” and therefore minimizes their value as humans.The slow deterioration of their human value occurs because Netanyahu knows, deep in his heart of hearts, that he is the one who is mainly responsible for the atrocities that transpired and continue to transpire - among others, the brutal kidnapping of our brothers and sisters. Netanyahu knows this, and at the same time vehemently denies it. He is incapable of bearing this heavy burden of responsibility, and so he shoves the hostages and the need to bring them home out of sight. He believes that bringing them home is hardly the most important thing. The most important thing is ending the war in complete victory, in his name, a victory that will help him atone for his unspeakable failure - and the hostages are his sacrifices.Netanyahu, in his unyielding arrogance, believes he is always right. Here, yet again, he is gravely mistaken. Abandoning the hostages will finally bring about his political demise and his name shall be a source of disgrace in Israel forever.
Acronyms and Glossary
ICC - International Criminal Court in the Hague
IJC - International Court of Justice in the Hague
MDA - Magen David Adom - Israel Ambulance Corp
PA - Palestinian Authority - President Mahmud Abbas, aka Abu Mazen
PMO- Prime Minister's Office
UAV - Unmanned Aerial vehicle, Drone. Could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance, or be weaponized with missiles or contain explosives for 'suicide' explosion mission
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