Bereaved Mother Confronts Ex-IDF Intel Chief Halawa, Demands Accountability

The mother of a Nova festival massacre victim confronted former head of Military Intelligence, Major General (res.) Aharon Halawa, in a chance encounter at Tel Aviv's Yarkon Park. Masha Yogev, whose daughter Libby Cohen Maguri was killed on October 7th, recounted the tense exchange on "Uvda" (Fact) news program.

Yogev described approaching Halawa, who she said initially claimed not to know who she or her daughter were. She expressed frustration with his response, questioning why she should have to pursue him for answers about the intelligence failures leading to the massacre. She contrasted his behavior with that of IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, who she said visited her home, even if he didn't provide answers.

"I need to approach you? I need to chase after you?" Yogev recounted asking Halawa. She stated that those responsible for the failures, including Halawa, should be "crushed" like she is.

Yogev also criticized the political and security leadership, calling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "the father of the concept" and accusing him of strengthening Hamas for 15 years. She argued that those responsible for the October 7th failures should be investigated and face consequences before continuing in public or security roles, citing Halawa's reported plans to enter the defense industry and former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar's move to a high-tech company.

Yogev emphasized that bereaved families deserve answers and a state inquiry into the events, noting that three years after the massacre, they are still awaiting a state commission of inquiry.