Israeli Hostage Survivors Criticize Netanyahu and Smotrich for Irresponsible Remarks

Hostage survivor Eli Sharabi sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in a Thursday interview on Kan Reshet Bet. Sharabi condemned Netanyahu’s response to a question about changes since October 7, when Netanyahu said he had "lost weight," calling it an embarrassing statement from leaders of Israel. Sharabi also rejected Smotrich’s claim that the released hostages owe their freedom to him, labeling such remarks as brazen and irresponsible given the national tragedy that began on October 7 and the ongoing suffering of thousands of families.

Earlier, fellow hostage survivor Omri Miran, who was held captive by Hamas for two years after being abducted from Kibbutz Nahal Oz, called on Netanyahu to take responsibility. Miran criticized the government for focusing on political maneuvers like the Torah learners’ law instead of addressing the consequences of the October 7 attacks. He also dismissed Smotrich’s assertion about his role in the hostages’ release, urging the minister to support any prisoner exchange deals he claims credit for and warning against taking credit for failed negotiations.

Miran shared insights into his recovery process, emphasizing the value of simply waking up at home after two years in captivity. He marked the 1,000-day milestone since October 7 as significant but stressed that every day remains a reminder of the ordeal.

Additionally, Talik Goili, mother of fallen soldier Ran Goili, expressed ongoing grief and distrust in the judicial system during an interview on Kan Reshet Bet. She called for a state commission of inquiry into the events surrounding October 7, advocating for a diverse panel rather than a strictly governmental one. Goili also criticized Smotrich’s comments, affirming that the Israel Defense Forces bear sole responsibility for the hostages’ return. She revealed she has received political offers but has not decided whether to enter politics.

These statements come as Israel marks 1,000 days since the devastating Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in mass abductions and casualties, leaving families and survivors demanding accountability and leadership from the government.