Mother of Israeli Hostage Avitar David Reveals Rift with Hostages' Families Group Over Politics

Galia David, mother of Avitar David who was taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 massacre, spoke on the Israeli TV program 'Uvda' about her family's decision to distance themselves from the civilian headquarters advocating for the hostages' return. She explained that the group became politically biased, which conflicted with their original hope that the cause would remain purely humanitarian and apolitical. "I was naive," she admitted, recalling her initial belief that the issue of the hostages could stay human and untainted by other agendas.

Galia described how her family initially joined the civilian headquarters for support during the confusing and painful ordeal but soon realized political interests were influencing the group. She quoted her husband saying, "You don’t see, but there are interests in everything." When they recognized this, they tried to voice their concerns about actions they felt were unhelpful.

She emphasized their respect for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating he was the only one capable of securing their son's release and that weakening him politically was harmful. Galia criticized slogans and chants from the group that undermined Netanyahu, expressing her belief that the struggle to bring back the hostages should transcend politics and be conducted with dignity and respect.