Mother of Soldiers Transforms Anxiety into Advocacy for Fighter Priorities
Hana Giatt, whose husband and two sons were serving in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war, has channeled her anxiety into activism by joining the "Mothers of Fighters" organization. The group advocates for policies that prioritize the lives and well-being of Israeli soldiers, a stance Giatt felt compelled to take after experiencing prolonged periods of silence from her family during the initial stages of the conflict.
Giatt explained that the lack of communication and the uncertainty surrounding her loved ones' safety fueled her decision to act. She became concerned that pre-war mindsets, which she believes may have influenced decision-making and led to soldiers being hesitant to fire for fear of harming civilians, persisted even after the October 7th attacks. This led her to believe that proactive measures were necessary to ensure the safety of soldiers.
She found a platform in "Mothers of Fighters," an organization that re-emerged with renewed purpose following the war. The group's core message, according to Giatt, is a demand for decisive victory while ensuring soldiers' lives are paramount. She stated, "Our soldiers' lives come before the enemy's lives," citing concerns about risking soldiers to supply hospitals or clear buildings that might be booby-trapped.
The organization has actively engaged with Knesset committees and policymakers, distinguishing itself from previous movements like "Four Mothers," which advocated for an end to conflict. Giatt emphasized that "Mothers of Fighters" seeks a different outcome, one that prioritizes the safe return of soldiers while still achieving military objectives. The group's membership is diverse, reflecting various sectors of Israeli society, and its focus is on strategic and systemic issues, including rules of engagement, legal proceedings against soldiers, and post-service recognition.
Giatt highlighted specific areas of concern, such as the Military Advocate General's Corps, where the organization has received testimonies of hesitation and operational constraints that allegedly led to casualties. They are also scrutinizing the clarity and practicality of rules of engagement, particularly concerning foreign activists and the distinction between legitimate journalists and those misrepresenting themselves in the West Bank. Furthermore, the group advocates for reservists' welfare, pushing for preferential university admissions and support for their academic and professional futures, viewing it as a national interest to have dedicated individuals in key public service roles.
