The NewsWorthy Special Edition: Two Years of War – Israel, Gaza & Searching for Peace
Oct 4, 2025
Dr. Boaz Atzili, a professor of international security with personal ties to the conflict, shares poignant insights around the two-year mark since the October 7 attacks. He reflects on the emotional toll of the war, criticizing Israeli leadership while emphasizing the need for diverse opinions to end the conflict. Boaz discusses how indiscriminate attacks undermine long-term security and the plight of hostages' families, highlighting their fears. His call for leadership and compromise as essential for lasting peace offers a glimmer of hope amid turmoil.
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Family Panic On October 7
- Boaz Atzili describes frantic messages and calls when he first saw news of October 7 while in the U.S.
- He couldn't reach some family members and later learned Aviv and Liat were taken hostage in Gaza.
Leadership Can Undermine Security
- Atzili argues Israel's current leadership has obstructed hostage returns and harmed long-term security.
- He contends indiscriminate attacks strengthen Hamas's position and undermine counterterrorism goals.
Public Wants Hostages Returned, War Ended
- Polls show 70–80% of Israelis favor ending the war if it secures hostage returns.
- Many Israelis also oppose large-scale civilian harm and want a different approach to Gaza.