Former Minister Gilad Erdan Faces Backlash at Gaza Border Protest Over Security Stance

Former Israeli Minister Gilad Erdan, now chairman of the 'Unity' party, attended a protest against the entry of foreign forces into Gaza at Kerem Shalom. During the event, some local residents opposed his presence, expressing frustration with his past political actions. Erdan addressed the crowd, asserting that the distinction between Hamas and Gaza residents is false and warning against rebuilding Gaza before completely defeating Hamas, which he called a terrorist organization. A resident from the Gaza border area interrupted him, accusing him of political opportunism and questioning his absence until now. Erdan responded that he was not engaging in politics and acknowledged mistakes made by previous governments he was part of. The resident remained unconvinced, accusing him of seeking votes and demanding he demonstrate rather than speak. The confrontation highlighted tensions between political figures and local communities affected by the conflict. The protest and exchange underscore ongoing debates about security policy and political accountability in southern Israel near Gaza.