Retired General Yossi Bachar Joins Religious Zionism Party Ahead of Elections

Retired Major General Yossi Bachar, a resident of Kibbutz Be'eri who fought on October 7th and whose mother was murdered in the Hamas attack, has joined the Religious Zionism party. Party leader Bezalel Smotrich announced Bachar's inclusion on Tuesday as candidate lists are being finalized for the upcoming Knesset elections, though it is not yet clear if he will be placed on the party's slate.

Bachar, 62, served as Deputy Commander of the Southern Command during the war and participated in planning and commanding operations in the Gaza Strip. He previously held significant military positions, including commander of the IDF's corps, commander of the Gaza Division, commander of the Galilee Formation, and commander of the Paratroopers Brigade.

On October 7th, Bachar armed himself with a weapon from a Kibbutz Be'eri rapid response team member and fought terrorists for hours. He stated that after decades of military service, he is answering a call to continue his national mission in the public sphere. "I am joining Religious Zionism out of deep faith in the movement's path and the leadership of Minister Smotrich, who have proven throughout the term unwavering commitment to strengthening Israel's security, bolstering settlement, and the future of the country," Bachar said. He added that he is enlisting to ensure no Israeli family experiences what his family endured at Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7th.

Bachar also revealed in November that Sahar Baruch, a hostage killed in captivity during a failed IDF rescue operation, was the son of his sister Tami. He wrote emotionally about the pain his sister endured, noting that her son Idan was murdered on October 7th, and Sahar was kidnapped and later killed during a failed special forces operation.

Smotrich described Bachar as a "hero of Israel, a man of settlement and security, who understands the importance of settlement for Israel's security." He praised Bachar's rich security experience, proven leadership, and love for the land, calling his joining the party "great news for Religious Zionism and the State of Israel." Smotrich added that the party is connecting "Kedumim and Be'eri and building Israel's security belt."