Full Breakdown
Families of Slain Hostages Demand Government Accountability
4/20/2026, 6:20:19 AM
Emotional Struggles and Lack of Support
Family members of individuals killed or kidnapped during the October 7 Hamas attacks expressed their profound emotional struggles and dissatisfaction with government support during a panel at the Knesset’s Committee for the Advancement of the Status of Women and Gender Equality. Ayelet Samerano, mother of Yonatan Samerano, who was murdered and whose remains were taken to Gaza, articulated her feelings of invisibility and despair, stating, "Since my son returned, I feel invisible." She highlighted the emotional toll of her loss, noting that she could not work following the return of her son's remains and has spent the last three Remembrance Days abroad due to the pain.
Personal Accounts of Loss and Despair
The panel featured several bereaved family members who shared their harrowing experiences. Esther Buchshtab, mother of Yagev Buchshtab, recalled the initial hope of bringing her son back, only to be met with the devastating news of his death. Doris Liber, mother of Guy Illouz, described her ongoing post-traumatic stress and the lack of recognition as a victim of terror. Hagit Chen, mother of Itay Chen, spoke about the financial hardships her family faced after losing their son, stating, “We are not capable of working.” Emuna Libman, sister of Elyakim Libman, recounted the traumatic moment of her brother's kidnapping and the subsequent emotional toll on her family.
Government Response and Criticism
Yaron Cohen, head of the Directorate for Hostages, Missing and Returnees, acknowledged the ongoing psychological impact on families, asserting that the situation is only beginning for many. Despite the government offering some financial and legal support, family members like Illouz criticized the inadequacy of these measures, emphasizing that the support provided is insufficient for their needs. MK Shelly Tal Meron (Yesh Atid) expressed a sense of moral failure, stating, “We failed to bring them home fast enough, and now we are failing to provide support to the families.”
Calls for Accountability
In light of their grievances, bereaved families protested outside the homes of various government officials, including Education Minister Yoav Kisch and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana. Sigal Yehudai, mother of Ron Yehudai, who was killed at the Supernova music festival, demanded accountability, saying, “What are you doing? Continuing to abandon us as if nothing had happened.” The families are calling for a state commission of inquiry to investigate government failures related to the October 7 attacks, which they believe is necessary for ensuring that their loved ones are not forgotten.
Conclusion
The emotional and financial struggles faced by families of the slain hostages underscore a broader issue of governmental support and accountability. As these families continue to seek recognition and assistance, their calls for a state commission of inquiry reflect a deep desire for justice and acknowledgment of their suffering.
