Comments from Israeli Politician Spark Controversy

In a striking statement, Moshe Feiglin, a far-right Israeli politician, asserted on Wednesday that all children in Gaza are regarded as enemies. This declaration was made during an interview with Israeli TV Channel 14.

Feiglin, who previously served in the Knesset, emphasized that the true adversary isn’t Hamas or its military faction. He stated, “All children in Gaza are enemies. We need to occupy Gaza and settle. Gazan children will not be left there. There will be no other victory.”

His remarks followed criticism from Yair Golan, a retired IDF vice-chief of staff and leader of the new political party The Democrats. Golan condemned Israel’s actions, pointing out the fallout of military operations in Gaza. He remarked, “Israel is moving towards becoming a pariah state unless South Africa returns to acting like a sane country,” and added that “sane countries don’t fight civilians or kill babies as a hobby.”

Golan accused the current Israeli leadership of lacking the capacity to govern effectively during crises, stating that such mismanagement endangered the nation’s survival.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by dismissing Golan’s comments as “wild agitation” and disrespectful to Israeli soldiers. He asserted, “The IDF is the most moral army in the world, and our soldiers fight in war for our existence.”

Recent Israeli military actions have intensified in Gaza, with Netanyahu declaring aims to take full control of the area to confront Hamas and to secure the release of hostages. Reports indicate that over 600 Palestinians have been killed in recent strikes, while the Palestinian Ministry of Health cites that around 53,000 people have died since the onset of this latest conflict after the attacks on October 7th.

The increasing number of civilian deaths has led to rising international backlash against Israel’s military tactics. In response, the UK has suspended free trade discussions, summoned Israeli diplomats, and introduced new sanctions on West Bank settlers. Prime Minister Kiel Starmer described the escalation of violence as “terrifying.”

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy noted that the attacks have not effectively facilitated the return of hostages and urged Israel to lift the humanitarian blockade affecting Gaza.

Amid international pressure, Gaza received five UN aid trucks carrying baby food for the first time since March 2nd, highlighting ongoing humanitarian crises, where millions struggle with essential shortages and face the threat of hunger.