TV Panelist Slams Hamas Captive Over Remarks, Claims She Caused His Firing

A controversy erupted in Israel following remarks by former Hamas hostage Yocheved Lifshitz, 88, who was abducted on October 7. In a Channel 13 interview, Lifshitz criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding hostage release efforts and stated, "Bibi didn't bring back any hostages, Miriam Adelson bought us from Trump. If this government remains after the elections, it's a disaster for the country."

In response, Avi Shoshan, a panelist on Channel 14's "The Patriots" and "Sheva" programs, attacked Lifshitz during a live broadcast. "I can't watch this woman, I'm sorry. She almost ruined my life," Shoshan said. He claimed Lifshitz arrived during the Biden administration, not Trump's, and that he heard her family's hatred for Netanyahu in the hospital waiting room. Shoshan asserted Lifshitz was responsible for the biggest public relations disaster since the war's start, citing her comments about Hamas treating her well, including providing shampoo and conditioner, and attributing her statements to hatred for Netanyahu.

Shoshan's remarks drew criticism from "Sheva" host Yehuda Shlezinger, who defended Lifshitz, stating, "She is a captive, she returned from captivity. She cannot be responsible for public relations. I don't identify with her words, but I say there is no need to blame her for this." Shoshan retorted that Lifshitz and her family were motivated by their animosity towards Netanyahu.

Shlezinger then revealed that Lifshitz's comments had led to Shoshan's dismissal from his role as spokesperson for Tel Aviv's Ichilov Medical Center, which Shoshan confirmed happened the same day. Shoshan had served as Ichilov's spokesperson for 13 years. His termination followed a hearing after Lifshitz praised her treatment by Hamas captors at a press conference held at the hospital, an act perceived as damaging to Israel's international image.