Meni Ventura Reveals Personal Cost of Iron Swords War After Selling Businesses to Command Reserve Battalion
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Meni Ventura, chairman of the Victory Generation organization, shared in a Channel 7 podcast how the Iron Swords war dramatically altered his life path. Previously a businessman managing several bakeries in Israel and London, Ventura sold his businesses to fully commit to commanding a reserve battalion. He recounted the unforgettable morning of October 7, when after a 20-kilometer run without his phone, he returned to dozens of missed calls from his wife and quickly realized from early reports that an unprecedented attack was underway.
Ventura described a poignant moment with his then 10-year-old son, who took on adult responsibility by asking about the location of his commando knife to defend their home if attacked. He emphasized the heavy toll the war has taken on children, especially those living near conflict zones, who have undergone profound trauma. Ventura also reflected on the false sense of security many Israelis felt before the war, acknowledging that the events of October 7 proved the ongoing precariousness of their reality.
Discussing his experience in London, Ventura noted the city's dramatic changes and warned Israel to learn from Europe's challenges to prevent similar developments. As head of Victory Generation, he advocates for a strategic shift in Israel’s political and military approach, calling for decisive victories and rejecting complacency. He highlighted the organization's efforts to promote ideas like establishing a buffer zone in Lebanon and encouraging migration from Gaza before these topics entered public discourse.
Regarding the northern front, Ventura acknowledged Hezbollah’s severe losses but stressed the ideological nature of the conflict, asserting that only Israeli strength and deterrence will prevent future attacks. He expressed deep mistrust of international forces in Lebanon and supported continued Israeli presence in security areas.
Ahead of upcoming elections, Ventura warned against political fragmentation on the right, fearing it could lead to historic setbacks. Praising retired Major General Ofer Winter’s leadership, he urged unity among nationalist factions. Despite challenges, Ventura concluded on an optimistic note, praising the younger generation of soldiers for their values and dedication, calling them truly the "Victory Generation."
