The Aftermath of October 7: Simcha Goldin's Call for Accountability

Simcha Goldin, father of Hadar Goldin, who was killed in Gaza in 2014, has publicly stated that the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, could have been prevented if Israeli leadership had taken his family's pleas seriously regarding the return of his son's remains. Goldin's assertions highlight a broader critique of the Israeli government's approach to Hamas and its handling of the Goldin family's situation over the years.

Times of Israel

Hadar Goldin's remains were returned by Hamas in November 2023, nearly eleven years after his death. Simcha Goldin has been vocal about the perceived negligence of successive Israeli governments, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration and Naftali Bennett's coalition government, in addressing the issue of his son's remains. Goldin claims that the lack of action contributed to a culture of complacency that ultimately culminated in the October 7 attacks, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of 251 hostages.

Times of Israel

Goldin has criticized both Netanyahu and Bennett for their dismissive attitudes toward his family's concerns. He described Netanyahu as "very wary of conflict" and accused former IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi of failing to prioritize the return of his son and other fallen soldiers. Goldin's remarks suggest a deep frustration with the military and political leadership, which he believes has not adequately addressed the issues surrounding the treatment of families of fallen soldiers.

Times of Israel

In a recent interview, Goldin expressed his belief that grassroots movements are essential for change, stating, “Change will only come from the grassroots.” He emphasized the need for unity among Israelis, particularly in the wake of the October 7 tragedy, which he believes has highlighted the failures of leadership. Goldin also noted that many victims of the attack were regular attendees at his family's rallies advocating for the return of fallen soldiers.

Times of Israel

• “A lot of the resistance to what we said stemmed from cowardice,” — Simcha Goldin, Father of Hadar Goldin

Times of Israel

• “I feel that I could have stopped the catastrophe if they had listened to me.” — Simcha Goldin

Times of Israel

• “Do you know how many times I’ve said that no wall in history has stopped a determined army?” — Simcha Goldin

Times of Israel

• “What came to pass is that we brought about a kind of conduct… of a family that doesn’t give up and reminds Israeli society of its values.” — Simcha Goldin

Times of Israel

As the Goldin family approaches their 400th weekly rally at the Black Arrow Memorial, they remain committed to advocating for the return of all fallen soldiers and addressing the broader implications of the October 7 attacks. Goldin's ongoing efforts reflect a desire for accountability and a call for a more proactive stance from Israeli leadership regarding the treatment of families of soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Times of Israel