Fallen Soldier's Father Fears Terrorist Release in Hostage Deals

Boaz Kokiya, the father of fallen soldier Ron Kokiya, revealed his deep concern that the terrorist who murdered his son might be released in future hostage deals. Kokiya, an activist with the "Choosing Life" forum, shared his anxieties during negotiations for hostage releases, stating that while many terrorists were freed, his son's killer was not, possibly due to his Israeli citizenship and relatively short prison term.

Kokiya expressed strong criticism of protests advocating for hostage deals during wartime, arguing that such public demonstrations emboldened Hamas and led them to increase their demands. Conversely, he believes that increased military pressure, particularly operations in Gaza City, was instrumental in shifting Hamas's stance. He also recounted his own reserve duty during the war, noting the caution exercised by forces in areas where hostages were believed to be held.

His activism stems from the 2017 murder of his son, Ron, who was stabbed to death in Arad while awaiting transport to guard settlements near Hebron. Ron, who served in the Nahal Brigade, had volunteered to return early to his base. The terrorist responsible was apprehended within 24 hours and sentenced to life imprisonment plus twenty years. Since his son's death, Kokiya has become a prominent public figure, advocating for harsher punishments for terrorists, including the death penalty, and opposing prisoner exchange deals.

Kokiya also criticized past Israeli policies, such as the Oslo Accords and the disengagement from Gaza, which he believes caused lasting security damage. He advocates for a policy of broad security control and continuous struggle against terrorist organizations, supporting a strong Israeli security presence in Judea and Samaria, Gaza, and other border areas. He also called for revised open-fire regulations and strengthened Israeli sovereignty and settlement.

While generally satisfied with the current government's security policy post-October 7, Kokiya urged further steps, including a harsher approach to the Palestinian Authority and considering its gradual dismantling. He also addressed the issue of illegal weapons in the Arab community, stating that the state is not doing enough. Kokiya also voiced disappointment with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, citing a promise not to advance anti-terror legislation during his term. He also criticized other political figures like Yair Lapid, Avigdor Lieberman, Benny Gantz, and Yair Golan for their handling of security threats.

Regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's responsibility for the October 7th events, Kokiya distinguished between overall responsibility and direct blame, stating that the Prime Minister shares responsibility for the nation's affairs. He suggested that Netanyahu could have acted more decisively against Hamas prior to the attack, but also noted that the security establishment and the public were unprepared for a large-scale military operation to conquer Gaza. Kokiya called for an investigation into the October 7th events but opposed a state commission of inquiry appointed by the Supreme Court president, advocating for a mechanism that also examines the judiciary's role in security decisions.

On the issue of Haredi conscription, Kokiya supports increased enlistment but believes the army lacks the infrastructure and suitable service frameworks to absorb tens of thousands of Haredi recruits immediately. He called for a practical conscription law that allows Haredi youth to serve while maintaining their lifestyle. He criticized the political exploitation of the issue and noted that previous governments also failed to provide adequate solutions.

Kokiya expressed hope for a decisive election outcome without a return to disruptive protests, while acknowledging the right to demonstrate. He declined offers to enter politics himself to maintain his independence but did not rule out a future executive role in counter-terrorism if granted significant operational autonomy. He continues to promote memorial projects and support Zionist and national organizations, emphasizing the need to strengthen Israeli society and national security.