Bereaved Forum Families Urge Israeli Leaders to Keep Pressing for Northern Security

Bereaved families from the Forum of Heroism met on Wednesday at the Knesset with Speaker Amir Ohana and Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Yariv Levin, asking them to strengthen the government and keep military and political pressure focused on security for Israel’s north.

Izik Pitousi, father of Yishai and a member of the forum’s leadership, told Channel 7: “We came to strengthen the Government of Israel and its head, not to yield to any pressure, and to keep fighting for the security of the citizens of Israel in the north. The Government of Israel is solely responsible for the security of its citizens.”

Ohana told the families that Israel is operating in full coordination with the American administration, but also has an independent right to defend its citizens. He said IDF soldiers will remain in strategic locations to ensure security on the northern border, and added that Israel is in “fateful days.” According to him, the prime minister is facing heavy domestic and international pressure, but is acting decisively to preserve ties and continue cooperation, while expressing appreciation for US President Donald Trump and the assistance he has provided Israel so far.

Levin told the families that the IDF’s rules of engagement have not changed. He said Israel is entrenching the army’s presence in strategic areas and working to prevent fire, and that it will not withdraw from any position that could pose a threat to the State of Israel.