Herzog Praises Police Role on Oct. 7, Hints at Government Failures

President Isaac Herzog presented commendations to 20 outstanding police officers on Sunday, using the occasion to reflect on the October 7th Hamas attack and implicitly criticize the government's preparedness. Speaking at the President's Residence, Herzog stated that while many systems failed on October 7th, the police "saved the country from a much heavier disaster."

He elaborated that on the day of the attack, there was chaos and many systems did not function, but the Israeli Police performed impressively. "Police officers were the first to understand what was happening, the first to respond and engage, and saved many lives," Herzog said, adding that the police's actions prevented an even greater catastrophe.

Herzog also condemned the escalating crime and violence within Israel, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action from all sectors. "The fight against violence must be shared by all of us, from all camps, and requires clear and determined coordination and cooperation between all parties," he stated.

The President expressed concern over a "dangerous feeling that the blood in our country has become cheap" and warned against becoming accustomed to the violence. He called for the public to reflect on their complacency, stating, "We have sinned by becoming accustomed to it."

Furthermore, Herzog urged for expanded executive and technological tools for the police to combat crime organizations and extortion rackets. He called on the Knesset to immediately legislate wiretapping laws and for the government to urgently provide the police with more special technological and operational resources, suggesting consideration of administrative measures against crime organizations akin to terrorist groups. He stressed that the police must act boldly and decisively.