Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, is facing serious criticism and challenges in the first election following the October 7, 2023 attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people. Many residents of Kibbutz Be'eri, one of the hardest-hit areas, are demanding accountability from Netanyahu for security failures.
Dissatisfaction of Be'eri Residents
Gal Cohen, a resident of Be'eri, expressed his distress that Netanyahu may be re-elected, saying: "This election is vital for Israel." He emphasized that if this government remains, many hearts and minds will be broken. Netanyahu, who is under criticism for failing to protect the security of the people, has not taken any responsibility in this regard.
Read more: Israel launched a military operation in Hebron and displaced 1,200 Palestinians
Election Competitions and Political Future
The upcoming elections present an opportunity for Netanyahu's opponents to take a step forward in political reckoning. However, polls indicate that the Likud party, led by Netanyahu, may face a significant decline. At the same time, opposition coalitions do not have a clear path to power, which could lead to a political deadlock.
In the days following the October 7 attack, Be'eri was heavily monitored by Israeli soldiers. Three years later, this kibbutz is now in the process of reconstruction, and its residents are gradually returning to normal life. However, the recent attack has changed residents' attitudes towards the possibility of peace with the Palestinians. Mory Gad Masika, another resident, stated that he has not yet made a decision about voting but will not vote for Netanyahu under any circumstances.
The families of the victims of the October 7 attack are still seeking accountability from the government and have held gatherings in places like "Hostage Square." Ofri Bibas, a member of these families, emphasized that his goal is for every Israeli to remember October 7 and to remember who did not take responsibility.
Thousands of Israelis gathered on Saturday in Hostage Square and listened to speakers including Daniel Aloni, who was himself a hostage. He urged attendees to vote, saying: "In the next three days, we can start a new chapter for our children."
Read more: Shiv Gupta canceled his trip to Europe due to unrest · Criticism of Netanyahu's plan to use cryptocurrencies against sanctions
