Fallen Soldier's Father Criticizes Hostage Families' Lack of Support

Itzik Bonzel, father of Amit Bonzel who was killed in Gaza, expressed his disappointment in an interview with "Medabrim News" regarding the perceived lack of solidarity from families of hostages towards bereaved families.

Bonzel stated that none of the returned hostages or their families had approached the families of fallen soldiers to express gratitude, suggesting that the soldiers' sacrifices were instrumental in their release. He specifically referenced Yocheved Lifshitz, a hostage survivor, whose public statements he found "pathetic" and "a direct arrow into our hearts." Bonzel clarified that while he had apologized for an earlier remark about her release, he stood by his criticism of her words, especially her claim that a millionaire paid for her freedom. He questioned what was expected of bereaved families when they knew the truth that their sons' actions led to her return.

Bonzel highlighted that his son had facilitated the return of Lifshitz's husband, who was later buried, and questioned why Lifshitz had not personally thanked his family. Instead, he noted, she credited foreign leaders and wealthy individuals. Bonzel urged such expressions of gratitude to be directed towards the bereaved families.

Reflecting on the upcoming High Holidays, Bonzel described the period as extremely difficult for bereaved families, with cemeteries and military plots filled with mourners and supporters. He also shared his surprise at the IDF's progress in Gaza, admitting he would not have believed on October 7th that the army would control 70% of the Strip and that all hostages would be returned, even if some were deceased. Bonzel credited the efforts and pressure from families on the government for this progress and expressed optimism that Israel is on the right path to achieving its war aims against Hamas.