Former Israeli POW Commander Rejects Smotrich’s Claim Over Hostage Returns

Nitzan Alon, former head of the Israeli POW and Missing Persons Command, sharply criticized Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s claim that he was responsible for the return of all hostages captured during recent conflicts. Speaking at the Herzliya Conference at Reichman University on July 1, 2026, Alon stated that Smotrich opposed some of the prisoner exchange agreements and therefore cannot claim credit for the full return of hostages.

Alon revealed that approximately 40 hostages who were abducted alive died while in captivity, emphasizing that different decisions or negotiations might have saved their lives. He accused the political leadership of refusing comprehensive deals under the guise of achieving an "absolute victory," a concept Alon called a "lie." He argued that partial agreements were chosen to allow the continuation of fighting, but the war could have ended much earlier.

Addressing the situation in the West Bank, Alon warned against the influence of "Hilltop Youth" activists who have gained significant government roles, describing a dangerous reality involving militias and terrorist activities. He cautioned that such developments risk turning Israel into an "apartheid state." Alon stressed that while the government has the authority to set and implement policies, it must do so responsibly and not through proxy forces.

Alon’s remarks highlight internal disagreements over the handling of hostage negotiations and broader security policies amid ongoing conflict and political tensions in Israel and the occupied territories.