Israeli Lawmaker Rothman Calls Coalition Term 'Wonderful,' Sparks Anger from Oct. 7 Victims' Relative
Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman described the coalition's term as 'wonderful' during a Knesset committee meeting, prompting an emotional response from Merav Svirsky, whose parents were killed on October 7 and brother died in Hamas captivity. Svirsky confronted Rothman about the human cost of the government's conduct, and was reportedly removed from the session during a break. The incident reflects ongoing tensions between the government and families of hostages and victims who have criticized the coalition's handling of the crisis.
During a meeting of the Knesset's Constitution, Law and Justice Committee on Wednesday, Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman—who chairs the committee—responded to a question about the coalition's success by calling it 'wonderful,' drawing immediate criticism from fellow lawmakers and attendees. Merav Svirsky, whose parents Orit and Rafi were killed on October 7 and whose brother Itay was murdered while held hostage in Gaza, directly confronted Rothman, telling him 'there are those who are paying the price for your conduct.' When Svirsky continued speaking, Rothman repeatedly asked her to stop and called for a break in proceedings. According to Haaretz, Svirsky was removed from the session during the break. The confrontation reflects a pattern of tension between Rothman and families of hostages and victims; in previous incidents, he has ordered the removal of other relatives who challenged the government's approach to hostage negotiations.
What different sources said
- Times of IsraelCenter
Rothman touts coalition’s ‘wonderful’ term, drawing ire of Oct. 7 victims’ relative
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