Retired General Yossi Bachar Joins Religious Zionism Party

Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionism party and Israel's Finance Minister, has decided to add retired Major General Yossi Bachar to his party's Knesset list. Bachar, a resident of Kibbutz Be'eri and a hero of the October 7th battles, is joining the political arena after decades of senior command roles in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including commanding the Gaza Division, the Northern Command's Galilee Formation, and the Paratroopers Brigade.

On the morning of October 7th, Bachar emerged from his home in Be'eri and fought Hamas terrorists for hours, helping to defend the kibbutz residents. Following the initial attack, he continued his military service during the war, being appointed Deputy Commander of the Southern Command, where he participated in planning and commanding operations in the Gaza Strip.

Smotrich presented Bachar as a security and settlement figure with extensive experience, stating, "Yossi Bachar is a hero of Israel, a man of settlement and security, who understands the importance of settlement for Israel's security." He added that Bachar brings "rich security experience, proven leadership, and love for the land," calling his addition "great news for Religious Zionism and the State of Israel." Smotrich also emphasized the connection between Be'eri and the party, stating, "We are connecting Kedumim and Be'eri and building Israel's security belt."

Bachar explained his transition from military to public service, saying, "After decades of military service for Israel's security, and especially since the disaster of October 7th, I am called today to continue the national mission in the public sphere as well." He cited his "deep belief in the movement's path and in Minister Smotrich's leadership," noting that Religious Zionism and Smotrich have demonstrated "uncompromising commitment to strengthening Israel's security, reinforcing settlement, and the country's future."

Reflecting on his family's experience in Be'eri, Bachar stated, "I am enlisting to ensure that no family in Israel goes through what the Bachar family went through in Be'eri on October 7th."