Former IDF deputy chief, Reserve Major General Yair Golan, has expressed his lack of confidence in the Israeli government’s efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Golan, who personally witnessed the devastation caused by last year’s attacks on Israel, described it as the “worst scene” he had seen in his nearly four decades of combat experience.
Now active in Israeli politics, Golan serves as the chair of the progressive Democrats party and is calling for immediate new elections in the country. In an interview with Sky News, he voiced his concerns over the government’s actions, stating, “I don’t get the impression that the Israeli government is working so hard to [free the hostages].”
Golan argued that successfully freeing the hostages would help achieve a ceasefire in the south. He believes that with a ceasefire on both southern and northern fronts, Israel can move forward toward societal recovery. This, he says, would be an essential step for Israel after such a traumatic period.
When asked whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should have already struck a ceasefire deal with Gaza, Golan was blunt in his response. He said, “Unfortunately, I do not trust Benjamin Netanyahu. I don’t trust the IDF.” His comments suggest a profound dissatisfaction with the current leadership’s handling of the situation.
Despite his criticisms of Netanyahu and the IDF, Golan expressed unwavering faith in the resilience of the Israeli people. “I do trust the Israeli society. I do trust the Israeli citizens, wonderful citizens that have managed to recover in a very impressive manner,” he added, highlighting the strength of the nation’s civilian population during these challenging times.
Golan’s remarks reflect growing tensions within Israel’s political and military circles regarding the handling of hostages release and the volatile situation in the region.
