Freed Hostage Tells Netanyahu He'll Vote Right, Cites Fear of Palestinian Government

Former hostage Rom Braslavski joined an online broadcast by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, participating in the Likud party's campaign for the upcoming legislative elections. Despite stating he has "many disagreements" with the prime minister, Braslavski declared he would vote for right-wing parties rather than support the left, expressing fear of "a Palestinian government being formed again."

Braslavski initially questioned Netanyahu about the decision of Gadi Eisenkot and other officials to leave the war cabinet during the ongoing conflict, especially as Braslavski himself was held hostage in Gaza. "How can one do such a thing?" he asked.

Netanyahu responded that his former partners had succumbed to political and international pressure, particularly from the United States, which he claimed was pushing for an end to the war and a halt to operations in Rafah and the Philadelphi Corridor. The prime minister asserted that military pressure on Hamas was crucial in securing the release of hostages, including Braslavski.

Braslavski recounted being held in Rafah during the Israeli offensive there, stating, "I was held in Rafah, I heard buildings falling one after another, and I was proud of what the army was doing." He also urged Netanyahu not to ease up on the war in Gaza, saying, "Well done for the war in Gaza. We must not let up."

Despite his criticisms, Braslavski thanked Netanyahu for the efforts that led to his and other hostages' release, describing their relationship as "love-hate." Netanyahu wished Braslavski "a good and happy life" and asked him to send his regards to his family.