Former AM:PM CEO Joins Opposition, Blames Netanyahu for October 7 Failures

Shirael Chogeg, former CEO of the AM:PM retail chain and a resident of Ofakim, has joined Gadi Eisenkot's party, vowing to fight for a better Israel. Chogeg's sister, Dr. Eli Chogeg, was severely burned along with her husband and infant daughter during the October 7th Hamas attack on Kibbutz Kfar Aza, an event that deeply impacted him and motivated his political aspirations.

Chogeg, who recently visited his sister in the hospital as she recovered, recalled promising her he would fight for a better future while she was in a medically induced coma. He now criticizes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that the Prime Minister "did the greatest damage to the country" and "paid money to the vandals who burned my sister." Chogeg believes Netanyahu orchestrated a controlled event during a recent visit to Ofakim, with pre-screened supporters, rather than engaging with the public directly.

Chogeg, a father of three, asserts that Ofakim, a traditional Likud stronghold, will see a different outcome in the upcoming elections, citing a shift in sentiment among residents who desire change. He argues that current leadership has "corrupted the political operating mechanism and the State of Israel" and that entering politics from diverse professional backgrounds is necessary to "change politics, not the other way around."

His sister, Dr. Eli Chogeg, expressed reservations about his entry into politics, viewing it as a "dirty swamp," but acknowledged his determination when he sees a just cause. She recounted the harrowing experience of the attack, emphasizing the lack of immediate IDF support and the desperate fight for survival. Chogeg himself stated he "prefers to be hurt by words than by bullets," highlighting his commitment to political action over violence.

Chogeg also criticized politicians like Dudi Amsalem for "trafficking in his origins to be relevant in politics," advocating instead for leaders who unite the nation. He believes Netanyahu will be held accountable, both by a state commission of inquiry and "in the court of heaven," for dividing the country and ignoring prior warnings.