Zehut Party Leader Feiglin Accuses Netanyahu of Leaving Gaza to Hamas

Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut Party, has sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza, asserting that the emerging agreement will preserve Hamas's control over the Strip. In an interview with Channel 7, Feiglin claimed that Netanyahu is effectively establishing a state for Hamas as retribution for the October 7th attacks. He argued that the failure to decisively defeat Hamas means the organization will remain the de facto ruler of Gaza, as long as it retains control of weapons and thus the monopoly on force.

Feiglin also alleged that thousands of Hamas operatives are training in Egypt to join a future security force in Gaza, and that U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to Netanyahu's request to postpone their entry until after the elections. No evidence was presented for these claims during the interview. Despite his criticism, Feiglin stated he does not intend to support an alternative government and plans to operate within the "national camp," though he acknowledges a significant ideological gap with the Prime Minister.

Feiglin declared his intention to seek a senior security role in the next government to implement a fundamental change in Israel's security doctrine. He advocates for a shift from a policy of containment and limited military actions to one of decisive victory and territorial control, using the slogan "conquest, expulsion, and settlement." He criticized the current security and military establishment for adhering to pre-Oslo Accords concepts and failing to adapt after October 7th. Feiglin also expressed disappointment with generals like Ofer Vinter, suggesting their proposed solutions do not represent a substantial shift in thinking.

Beyond security, Feiglin outlined his party's vision for domestic reform. He proposed direct public election of Supreme Court justices, contrasting it with the government's judicial reform efforts. For education, he suggested transferring budgets to parents via vouchers, allowing them to choose schools and fostering competition. He also advocated for equal military service for all, including the Haredi population, while criticizing the public campaign surrounding the issue.

Feiglin shared a personal anecdote about his grandson, Sergeant Yair, who fell in Gaza. He recounted a vow made at his grandson's grave to fight for the victory he died for, emphasizing that the loss deepened his commitment to public service and his belief that a new approach is necessary to prevent future tragedies like October 7th. He described Zehut as a "political Chabad House," aiming to connect national Jewish identity with personal freedom for all Israelis.