Likud Activist Apologizes for Hamas Remark to Hostage Survivor

Itzik Bonzel, a Likud party activist, has apologized for a Facebook post in which he wrote to Yocheved Lifshitz, a former hostage, "I wish it were possible to return you to Hamas." Bonzel, who lost his son in the war to retrieve hostages, explained that he wrote the comment in a moment of emotional distress after seeing what he perceived as statements that disrespected Israeli soldiers. He stated that his intention was not what his words implied and expressed regret for the remark.

Lifshitz, along with her husband, was among the first two hostages released by Hamas in October 2023. She has since spoken out about her experiences during captivity, including allegations of abuse. Bonzel's comment appears to be a reaction to her public statements.