Full Breakdown
Bereaved Families Take Leadership Roles in Israel's Reservists Party
2/11/2026, 9:10:48 AM
New Leadership Structure
The Reservists Party, led by former communications minister Yoaz Hendel, has recently elected bereaved family members to its leadership following internal party elections. Among those elected is Sandra Alon, mother of Sgt. Tomer Keren, who was killed during the Israel-Hamas War. Alon expressed her commitment to supporting bereaved families, stating, “Sadly, I am a primary source. That allows me to help them in ways no one else can.” The elections saw a participation rate of 76% among eligible members, conducted through a remote electronic process.
Personal Experiences Shape Political Goals
Alon emphasized her personal experience with loss as a driving force behind her political involvement. Her son, Tomer, was a commander in the 51st Battalion of the Golani Brigade, who was killed in combat at the age of 20. Reflecting on her tragedy, Alon stated, “From that day on, I had to decide whether I was choosing life or not.” She aims to focus on the positive aspects of life and believes her role in the party is to provide insight into the needs of bereaved families and reservists.
Shlomi Damari, another bereaved family member elected to leadership, echoed Alon’s sentiments. He noted that the inclusion of bereaved families in the party's leadership is crucial in addressing the needs of the State of Israel in the wake of the October 7 attacks. Damari remarked, “The bereaved families are the people who paid the heaviest price in this war,” highlighting their unique perspective on national priorities.
Trust in Leadership
Alon expressed her trust in Yoaz Hendel's leadership, citing his extensive military experience as a vital asset. She believes that only those who have experienced the realities of war can truly understand and address the needs of those who serve. “Only people who were on the ground and understand war, loss, and injury... can truly help one another,” she stated.
Broader Implications
The election of bereaved family members into leadership positions within the Reservists Party reflects a significant shift in Israeli political dynamics, particularly in response to the October 7 attacks. This development underscores the importance of personal experiences in shaping political agendas and priorities, particularly in a nation grappling with the aftermath of conflict.
Official Statements & Responses
The Reservists Party has positioned itself as a response to the leadership vacuum following the October 7 attacks, advocating for universal conscription and addressing the needs of reservists and bereaved families. Damari emphasized the party's democratic election process, stating, “It reflects the way the party operates,” and noted the critical role bereaved families play in shaping Israel's future.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sadly, I am a primary source. That allows me to help them in ways no one else can,” — Sandra Alon, Bereaved Family Member
- “From that day on, I had to decide whether I was choosing life or not,” she said.” — Sandra Alon, Bereaved Family Member
- “The bereaved families are the people who paid the heaviest price in this war,” — Shlomi Damari, Bereaved Family Member
This evolving leadership structure within the Reservists Party highlights the intersection of personal tragedy and political action, aiming to address the pressing needs of those affected by recent conflicts in Israel.
