Grief Fuels Political Ambitions for Gaza Border Survivors

Two individuals from Israel's Gaza border communities, deeply affected by the October 7th Hamas attacks, have entered politics with the aim of shaping the nation's future. Nir Hajbi, whose 18-year-old son Jonathan was killed on October 7th, is running for the Knesset as the second candidate on Gadi Eisenkot's "Yashar" party list. Hajbi, a reserve duty commander, was abroad during the attack and returned immediately to lead his unit. He described the lingering trauma, recalling the sight of a blue baby carriage on the road and the pervasive scents of the attack zones.

The widow of kibbutz security chief, the widow of Arik the widow of kibbutz security chief, the security chief of Kibbutz Be'eri who was killed on October 7th, is running as the tenth candidate on Ofer Winter's "Am Israel" party list. The widow of kibbutz security chief, a mother of four, spoke of her profound loss, encompassing her husband, murdered friends, and the harrowing 17 hours of terror she endured. She views her political candidacy as a personal mission stemming directly from the events of October 7th, aiming to create a better country and ensure the enemy is no longer present in any part of Israel.

Hajbi and the widow of kibbutz security chief, who did not know each other before their joint interview, share the experience of losing loved ones and channeling their grief into public service. While their losses are similar, their conclusions differ. The widow of kibbutz security chief advocates for voluntary emigration of Gaza residents and a change in engagement rules for soldiers, stating, "My mission is that the enemy will not be here." Hajbi, while acknowledging the desire for peace, expressed reservations about the feasibility of mass emigration due to diplomatic and economic considerations, emphasizing the need for short, decisive military operations and a political settlement.

Both individuals expressed deep disappointment with the current leadership. Hajbi criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not visiting all bereaved families and for his perceived lack of accountability. The widow of kibbutz security chief, while acknowledging the military chief of staff's responsibility, noted his efforts to connect with families, contrasting it with Netanyahu's approach. Hajbi also reflected on his personal transformation, becoming more sensitive and resilient after his son's death, while the widow of kibbutz security chief finds strength in her family and her mission to create a better future.

The conversation also touched upon the ongoing security situation and the future of Gaza. Hajbi questioned how Hamas amassed its power and wealth, suggesting that Israeli policy allowed for the infiltration of materials used against them. The widow of kibbutz security chief insisted that Hamas is an irredeemable terrorist organization and that any individual from Gaza approaching the border should be considered hostile. Hajbi countered that while the goal is to live without enemies, a pragmatic approach considering international relations is necessary, advocating for a political settlement without Hamas and with no weapons in Gaza.