Retired General Nitzan Alon Rejects Smotrich's Credit for Hostage Return

Retired Major General Nitzan Alon, former head of the Prisoners and Missing Persons Command and Central Command, spoke at the Herzliya Conference at Reichman University on Wednesday about the recent hostage situation, war management, and security conditions in Judea and Samaria. Alon emphasized that while the return of all hostages is an achievement, it must be remembered that around 40 hostages who were kidnapped alive did not survive. Some were killed by Israeli forces, others by their captors, or succumbed to harsh conditions. He acknowledged that in some cases, different decisions or negotiations might have saved lives.

Alon directly refuted Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's claim that his stance was responsible for the return of all hostages, stating that Smotrich opposed some agreements at various stages and therefore cannot claim credit. He criticized the Israeli government and security cabinet for rejecting earlier, more comprehensive deals in favor of partial agreements aimed at prolonging the fighting, which he described as a false pursuit of total victory. Alon suggested that earlier acceptance of certain proposals, which he believes the opposing side might have agreed to, could have shortened the war and secured the hostages' release sooner.

Reflecting on the killing of six hostages in a tunnel in Rafah, Alon called it one of the war's most painful moments, citing operational errors in planning and situational assessment. He expressed deep regret over missed opportunities to rescue hostages before late August 2024. Alon urged the establishment of a state commission of inquiry to thoroughly examine the hostage issue, including whether earlier releases were possible.

Addressing the situation in Judea and Samaria, Alon warned of emerging security risks from current developments. He acknowledged Israel's right to set policy but stressed it must be implemented responsibly, without proxy forces. He cautioned that the current reality could lead to a complex security environment and even an "apartheid state" scenario.