Mother of Kidnapped Yotam Hayim Condemns Workers Using His Home as Toilet in Kibbutz

Iris Hayim, mother of Yotam Hayim who was kidnapped from his home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza and later accidentally shot by the IDF after escaping, revealed a disturbing incident involving her late son's house. She exposed that construction workers from a nearby site have been using Yotam's home and other houses of fallen residents as toilets, despite the kibbutz providing proper restroom facilities. Hayim described the act as deeply disrespectful, comparing it to defiling a synagogue, emphasizing the sacredness of the homes and the memory they hold.

In an interview on "Hadashot HaBoker" with host Niv Reskin, Iris Hayim expressed her shock and frustration. She noted that although the kibbutz is aware and concerned about the issue, it persists. She called on the construction company Epstein to remove these workers and conduct a thorough review of their employment practices. Hayim also reached out to officials including Boaz Barzilai, CEO of the Tekuma Forum, and Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, seeking immediate action.

Hayim shared that she first heard about the misuse of the houses weeks ago from the family of Nir'el Zini, another victim whose home is nearby. Despite efforts by the kibbutz to clean and monitor the area with cameras, the problem continues. She strongly opposes plans to demolish the neighborhood, advocating instead to preserve the homes as a museum and memorial site to honor the victims and their stories.

The kibbutz issued a statement expressing shock and sorrow over the incident, calling it a severe and unacceptable act. They have been investigating the matter using security footage but have not yet identified the responsible individuals. Additional cameras have been installed, and plans are underway to fence the "Dor Tzair" neighborhood to control access and prevent recurrence.

This case highlights ongoing tensions in the community as it tries to recover from the trauma of the October 7 attacks and the kidnapping of residents like Yotam Hayim.