PR Guru Roni Re'em Slams Likud Candidate Itzik Bonzel Over Remarks to Hostage Yocheved Lifshitz

PR executive Roni Re'em has fiercely criticized Itzik Bonzel, a candidate on the Likud party's Knesset list, for his harsh remarks directed at Yocheved Lifshitz. Lifshitz, who was abducted from her home in Nir Oz on October 7 and later released from Hamas captivity, had recently stated in an interview that Prime Minister Netanyahu had not brought about the return of hostages and criticized the government's actions.

In response to Lifshitz's comments, Bonzel, the bereaved father of Amit Bonzel, who fell in battle, wrote to her, "I wish there was a way to return you to Hamas." He also accused her of harming soldiers. Re'em, known for his work in public relations, entered the fray, strongly condemning Bonzel's statements.

Re'em questioned Bonzel's right to criticize Lifshitz, calling her a "holy woman" who endured "hell in the Gaza tunnels." He emphasized that one does not attack bereaved families, stating he himself comes from such a family and was taught to respect them. Re'em suggested that Bonzel had forfeited his status as a member of a bereaved family by his actions.

Re'em also invoked Bonzel's fallen son, saying, "I am sure your heroic son, the salt of the earth who is holy in my eyes, would be ashamed of everything you are doing." He concluded by expressing hope that Bonzel would not enter the Knesset.

Bonzel later issued a qualified apology, claiming his statement about Lifshitz was made in the heat of emotion and not intended. Lifshitz, in turn, responded to the controversy by suggesting it was an attempt to sow division among families affected by the October 7th attacks.