Reflections on Memorial Day and the Call for Justice

This past weekend marked Memorial Day, a time to honor those who have served and sacrificed for our nation. My son, Itai, tragically lost his life to Hamas on October 7, 2023. He was only 19. It feels important to remember that he was not just someone who served; he was my child—an American and an Israeli.

Since that day, nearly a thousand days have gone by, leaving me with countless unanswered questions. The pain doesn’t just disappear with an investigation. Yet, without accountability, healing seems impossible.

I’m sharing this, not as a member of a political party, but as a father and an American, one who believes in the necessity of standing by our people.

The History of Investigations in America

The U.S. has a history of examining the deaths of its citizens in conflict areas. After four Americans were killed in Benghazi in 2012, Congress pursued eight different investigations, including a bipartisan task force that lasted two years. Similarly, when 19 American servicemen died in the 1996 Khobar Towers bombing, there was a formal investigation that included overseas efforts to compile detailed reports.

Yet now, after 46 Americans were killed at the Gaza border—more than ten times the Benghazi casualties—there’s been no formal bipartisan commission set up by Congress.

The Urgency of Action

Every day without an investigation means evidence can fade, and memories can become less vivid. Digital records can vanish, and witnesses can get displaced. We seek accountability, not just for the act itself but also for those who supported or funded it. A serious investigation is essential, one that utilizes subpoena powers and adequate resources, rather than mere expressions of sympathy.

Time is of the essence. The longer Congress waits, the tougher discovering the truth will become.

Responsibility Lies with America

My roots in Israel run deep, and my son wore a military uniform. Sadly, due to political dynamics, the Israeli government seems less likely to prioritize a thorough investigation into the deaths of over 2,000 citizens, including 46 Americans, from that day. Given the current political climate in Israel, expecting substantial accountability in the immediate future seems unrealistic.

While I don’t anticipate changes in Israeli policy, I urge the U.S. to act for its own citizens.

A Matter of Principle

This isn’t about politics; it’s about a straightforward principle. When Americans lose their lives in combat zones, there must be an obligation to understand what transpired, why it occurred, and who is accountable.

The complexities of geopolitics don’t negate this duty. We can’t pause because of potential repercussions for our allies. America’s responsibility to its citizens can’t be selective.

For decades, we’ve upheld the idea that there will be consequences for the kidnapping and killing of Americans. This principle should be consistently applied—regardless of whether the perpetrators are terrorists or officials who played a role in these tragedies.

The Need for a Bipartisan Commission

A bipartisan parliamentary committee, modeled after previous investigations, seems like the right solution. Republicans, who often prioritize national sovereignty and citizen safety, and Democrats, who advocate for oversight and accountability, need to unite in this cause.

This commission would have the authority to subpoena and investigate. Its task must be straightforward: follow the evidence and hold accountable anyone connected to the deaths of American citizens.

This isn’t a demand from one side of the aisle; it’s a collective American demand.

After 966 days have passed, memories are fading, and families like mine are still left waiting.

While I can’t bring my son home, I can advocate that his death, as well as the deaths of 45 other Americans, shouldn’t be overlooked. Congress must take action—together—and do it now, for the sake of our nation.