Son of Fallen Soldiers Criticizes Leadership, Joins New Political Party

Elisaf Peretz, son of Miriam Peretz and brother to two fallen soldiers, has joined the new Yisrael party led by Gadi Eisenkot, alongside other figures like Hili Tropper and Shira Shapira. Peretz expressed a strong belief in the need for governmental change and personal accountability from leadership following the failures of October 7th. He criticized the current government's priorities, stating that prolonged power can corrupt individuals and that a change in leadership is necessary after two decades. Peretz argued that the Prime Minister should have taken responsibility for the "greatest failure since the establishment of the state" and resigned.

Peretz also voiced strong objections to the presence of individuals in the security cabinet who he believes encourage draft evasion. He cited Aryeh Deri's pride in his Haredi grandsons who are draft dodgers as an example of someone unfit to make decisions about military operations. While acknowledging military achievements since October 7th, Peretz stressed that no front is completely secure and a thorough investigation into the "conception" that led to the failures is essential. He advocated for civil sanctions, such as revoking driving licenses and passports, rather than arrests to integrate the Haredi sector into national service.

Discussing the Yisrael party's core principles, Peretz outlined four foundational tenets: a Jewish and democratic state, adherence to the Declaration of Independence, universal service, and the destruction of Hamas. He stated that Arab parties, including Ra'am, would not be part of a coalition if they did not meet these criteria. Peretz concluded by sharing a poignant memory of a child survivor from Sderot on October 7th, emphasizing that "we are Israel's" and pledging to protect the country to prevent future tragedies.