October 7 will be present in the next Knesset, regardless of who comes out on top - analysis
October 7 will affect the elections not only through the issues being debated, but also through the people who will be doing the debating.
On Monday, Israel marked October 7 by lowering its flags and beginning a multi-day period of remembrance. This solemn occasion, without the somber sirens, felt akin to Remembrance Day, a day dedicated to honoring fallen soldiers. Across the nation, people mourned the loss of lives, listened to harrowing accounts from both victims and survivors, and grappled with the impact of this tragic day. On Wednesday, ceremonies will commemorate the anniversary of the massacre itself, with Israelis heading to the polls soon after.
The upcoming elections are heavily influenced by October 7 and its aftermath, as voters consider who is responsible for the catastrophe, who has performed well since then, and who can best protect the country in the future. This issue extends beyond the topics being discussed to the individuals who will be debating these matters.
Among the candidates realistically positioned or just outside the top spots on party lists are over 20 people whose lives were deeply affected by October 7 and the subsequent conflict. These individuals, who have lost loved ones, fought to free hostages, or risked their own lives on that fateful day, bring their personal experiences to the Knesset. They will be able to influence the nation as Members of Knesset (MKs).
Some of these bereaved parents include Talik Gvili, the mother of a police officer killed on October 7, and Gadi Eisenkot, whose son Gal and nephews perished in the war. Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid's B Yachad list features Michal Hirsch Negri, whose son Roee died at Kibbutz Be'er Sheva. Yisrael Beytenu has Rafi Ben-Shitrit, whose son Alroy died defending Nahal Oz, and Sharon Sharabi, the brother of two hostages killed in captivity.
The impact of October 7 is also evident in the reserve burdens some candidates have shouldered. These individuals, who have lost family members, been wounded, or actively participated in the fighting, have spent hundreds of days in uniform. Candidates such as Eitan Eitam, Yoaz Hendel, Amir Strugo, and Zvika Mor have each served significant periods in reserve duty, reflecting the profound impact of the conflict on their lives.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
