Gaza Captive Survivor Faces Outrageous Remark From Likud Candidate

Itzik Bonzel, a bereaved father whose son was killed in Gaza and who is ranked 29th on the Likud party's Knesset list, sparked a political firestorm with a social media post targeting 88-year-old hostage survivor Yocheved Lifshitz. Lifshitz, whose husband was murdered in captivity, had recently criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an interview, claiming her release was facilitated by Miriam Adelson and stating that Netanyahu had not brought any hostages home. She also warned that a continued Netanyahu government after the elections would be a disaster for the country.

In response, Bonzel asserted that soldiers, including his son, were responsible for Lifshitz's rescue from Hamas tunnels, paying with their lives. He accused her of lacking gratitude and respect for the fallen, and controversially stated, "I wish there was a way to turn back time and return you to Hamas's hands." He also suggested her opposition to Netanyahu had compromised her moral values.

The remarks drew sharp condemnation from opposition leaders. Gadi Eisenkot, chair of the "Yashar!" party, called Lifshitz a hero and labeled Bonzel's statement a moral low point, questioning the suitability of anyone who wishes such a fate upon an Israeli citizen to serve in the Knesset. Yair Golan, chair of "HaDemocratim," echoed these sentiments, urging Netanyahu to apologize for his failures and criticizing the enlistment of individuals who wish harm upon survivors.

Lifshitz herself responded, suggesting Netanyahu sent Bonzel to distract from warnings he received prior to the October 7th attacks. Following the backlash, Bonzel issued an apology, stating his remark was made in the heat of emotion and was not intended. He later formally apologized for his words.