Singer Osher Cohen Apologizes for Israeli Society's Forgetfulness

Three years after the October 7th attacks, Israeli singer Osher Cohen posted a lengthy message on Instagram reflecting on Israeli society's tendency to forget. Cohen stated that Israelis quickly forget not only what was done to them but also the unity they felt during difficult times. He described Israelis as a people who climb above disaster and are holy but also "bloody," always remembered but prone to forgetting.

Cohen questioned whether Israelis are hypocritical for only expressing grief and remembrance on specific dates like Memorial Day, while otherwise seeking distractions through parties and performances to suppress pain. He suggested that the calendar's designated days for mourning are a consequence of this societal forgetfulness, allowing Israelis to process their grief before returning to their lives and fulfilling the "will of the martyrs."

The singer then turned inward, questioning the legacy left by those who perished. He asked if the current state of Israeli society, characterized by infighting, boycotts among children, and simple hatred, truly honors their memory. Cohen concluded by apologizing to the "angels," admitting that society has forgotten their true will, which was unity, giving, setting aside personal agendas due to overwhelming pain, and mutual responsibility, a will that was clearly demonstrated in the immediate aftermath of the attacks when the "blood was still fresh."