Hostage Negotiator's Mother Slams Netanyahu Over Political Calculations

Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan was among the hostages held in Gaza, has sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his team, alleging that political and personal considerations superseded efforts to secure the release of hostages. Zangauker described the period following the October 7th Hamas attacks as one of the most difficult times she has experienced during her advocacy for the hostages' return.

She recounted the intense anxiety that gripped the nation amid circulating rumors and the devastating news that ultimately "crushed" her. Zangauker expressed the deep bond she formed with the families of other hostages, stating their pain remains a constant ache in her heart.

Zangauker accused decision-makers of abandoning and sacrificing the hostages for political gain, suggesting that promoting the "Spin Field" narrative was prioritized over their safe return. She contrasted the "light" of the hostages with the "darkness" of those who repeatedly voted against their release, referencing images of them in "death tunnels."

Furthermore, Zangauker claimed that Netanyahu's advisors leaked damaging information to the press during critical moments to manipulate public opinion and undermine the hostage rescue efforts. She declared that "a thousand hells" could not cleanse the souls of those responsible, from the Prime Minister down to his entire staff.

Despite the immense pain, Zangauker acknowledged the successful return of some hostages, including her son Matan, but lamented the ongoing grief for those still held captive. She vowed to continue her fight daily to remove from power all those involved in the failures of October 7th and subsequent actions.