October 7 one year on: Hostages' relative, ex-soldier and journalist reflect
Oct 4, 2024
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This insightful discussion features Jotam Confino, a Telegraph correspondent, Yifat Zailer, a courageous advocate for her relatives held hostage, and Joel Carmel, a former IDF soldier. They delve into the deep emotional scars left by the October 7th Hamas attack and its impact on Israeli society. Confino analyzes the political shifts towards right-wing sentiments, while Zailer shares her family's heart-wrenching struggle. Carmel addresses the moral complexities of military actions and the urgent need for empathy and change in this tumultuous landscape.
Families of hostages, like Yifat Zailer's, endure immense emotional turmoil while advocating for the safe return of their loved ones amidst despair.
The political landscape in Israel has shifted towards a more rightward, militaristic stance as public sentiment reacts to the conflict with Hamas.
Deep dives
Impact of the October 7th Attack
The attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in significant loss of life and trauma for Israelis, marking a turning point in the conflict with Hamas. Nearly 1,200 individuals were killed and 250 people were abducted during the attacks, which involved brutal acts like rape and looting. The aftermath of these atrocities has led to a heightened sense of fear and insecurity across Israel, as communities grapple with the immediate and long-term effects of this violence. The devastation was not only physically impactful, but also emotionally, as families continue to navigate the trauma and uncertainty surrounding the fate of those captured.
The Emotional Toll on Hostage Families
Families of hostages, such as that of Shiri Bibas, face insurmountable challenges staying hopeful while grappling with despair. Despite the overwhelming uncertainty surrounding the fate of their loved ones, there is a persistent will to remember them as alive and fighting for their return. The emotional strain is heightened by the bombardment of misinformation and rumors about the hostages, which complicates coping mechanisms. Ultimately, the families remain tirelessly committed to raising awareness and advocating for the safe return of their loved ones, refusing to succumb to despair in the face of tragedy.
Shifts in Israeli Society and Politics
The political landscape in Israel has shifted dramatically since the October 7th attacks, as public sentiment and unity have altered in response to the ongoing conflict. Although Prime Minister Netanyahu faced significant unpopularity prior to the attack, his government has managed to regain a level of support due to the narrative of collective defense against perceived threats. As citizens rally around the government amidst the war, there's an emerging rightward shift in Israeli politics, with the public less inclined toward leftist policies or negotiations with Palestinian authorities. This transformation reflects a broader societal desire for security and a reaction against external threats, reinforcing a more militaristic national identity.
Testimonies and Perspectives on the Occupation
The testimonies collected by organizations like Breaking the Silence reveal the complex experiences of Israeli soldiers and the implications of the ongoing conflict. Former soldier Joel Carmel shared insights regarding military strategies that prioritize the safety of Israeli soldiers while engaging civilian areas in Gaza. The adoption of aggressive military doctrines has led to extensive civilian casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure. These firsthand accounts continue to challenge the narrative of the Israeli military as the 'most moral army,' raising critical questions about the ethics of current military operations and the long-term consequences for both Israeli and Palestinian societies.
One year on from the Hamas massacre of October 7, Israel is still struggling to recover from the trauma of that day. We share three different Israeli perspectives: Telegraph correspondent Jotam Confino, who has reported on the shifts in Israeli society and politics; Yifat Zailer, whose cousin Shiri Bibas is still being held hostage along with her two red-headed young children and husband; and Joel Carmel, a former IDF soldier who examines the reality of the Israeli military's methods through his work for advocacy group Breaking the Silence.
Contributors
Venetia Rainey (Host)
Jotam Confino (Telegraph correspondent)
Yifat Zailer (relative of Israeli hostages)
Joel Carmel (Breaking the Silence Advocacy Director, former IDF solider)