Communication Minister Kar'i Questions Yair Golan's Role on October 7 Amid Political Rift

Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Kar'i sharply criticized Yair Golan, chairman of the Democratic Party, questioning his actions during the Hamas attack on October 7. In an interview with Yuval Karni on the Knesset Channel, Kar'i expressed doubt that Golan saved anyone during the attack, noting that although Golan appeared in neatly pressed military uniform that morning, Kar'i had not seen any footage proving he rescued civilians. When the interviewer mentioned eyewitnesses claiming Golan evacuated civilians by car, Kar'i dismissed the claims, citing Golan's previous harsh remarks about IDF soldiers and expressing disbelief in his heroism.

Kar'i also addressed Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the Yisrael party, stating he had no principled objection to Eizenkot joining a right-wing government if it adhered to their core principles. However, Kar'i opposed Eizenkot's political alignment, accusing him of joining a coalition with Golan, Naama Lazimi, and others whom Kar'i criticized for blaming Jews rather than terrorists after attacks. Kar'i described this group as the government Eizenkot chose to be part of.

The interview highlighted deep political divisions within Israeli politics, with Kar'i challenging the credibility and political affiliations of prominent figures like Golan and Eizenkot amid ongoing debates about leadership and security following the October 7 attacks.