Likud MK Amit Halevi Criticizes Security Failures Behind Border Fatality and Calls for Deep Systemic Reforms
In an interview on the "Iron Domes" program on Srugim, Likud MK Amit Halevi discussed his parliamentary work, political worldview, and challenges facing the national camp ahead of the Likud primaries. Halevi, known for his ideological activism, emphasized that the root problems in Israel stem from deep systemic issues, including education in East Jerusalem and the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) approach to borders. He described Likud as a microcosm of Israeli society, highlighting its internal democracy with 140,000 active members participating in primaries despite some reserved list spots.
Halevi addressed the death of Border Police officer Barel Hadaria Shmueli, who was killed by a terrorist at the border. He argued the tragedy was not due to a lack of intelligence but a flawed worldview that failed to treat Israel's borders as sovereign and inviolable. He criticized the security establishment and legal advisors for downplaying border breaches as mere civil issues rather than serious security threats. Halevi successfully pushed legislation defining border infiltration as a security offense requiring Shin Bet intervention.
The MK also highlighted the importance of education in combating terrorism, criticizing the Israeli focus on tactical responses rather than uprooting ideological indoctrination in East Jerusalem schools. He noted the judiciary's resistance to laws barring teachers who support terrorism from classrooms. Halevi further criticized the IDF's leadership, particularly former Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, for underestimating the enemy and relying on a "small smart army" concept that ignored ongoing threats, contributing to the surprise of the October 7 attacks.
Concluding, Halevi condemned the legal proceedings against Prime Minister Netanyahu as an attack on democracy and the national camp. He urged voters to participate actively in the upcoming Likud primaries and general elections to ensure a "fighting team" capable of deep systemic reforms in Israel's security and governance structures.
