“You must be worthy of the soldiers who lost their lives”: Israeli general takes sharp aim at Netanyahu’s government

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Generals are known for their battlefield expertise. It is extremely rare for them to enter the political sphere. If it happens once, it will blow. This was evident not least from the tense relationship between President Volodymyr Selensky (46) and his ex-army chief Valeri Zalushni (50) in Ukraine.

Now a general has also spoken out in the Gaza war. A few days ago, Dan Goldfuss (47) clearly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (74) in an inflammatory speech. While Israeli soldiers fought side by side in Gaza without caring about the political or religious beliefs of their comrades, Israeli politicians continued their devious power games, the officer charged. “You must be worthy of us,” Goldfuss muttered. “You must be worthy of the soldiers who lost their lives.” He delivered his speech in full military gear, with a notebook in his hand.

“We will not run away from our responsibility,” Goldfuss promised. A clear swipe at Netanyahu, who, unlike the defense minister and the army, has so far avoided responsibility for the October 7 Hamas attack.

General criticism of Netanyahu’s unpopular government

It is no coincidence that Goldfuss also broached the subject of religion. Ultra-Orthodox Israelis are not called up for military service. This irritates the Brigadier. Netanyahu and Co. should make sure they fight too. “You should.”

Tree! Goldfuss’ words were true. One of the key strategists behind the Gaza campaign understands that his word carries weight with the public. His statements were probably not only well received by the Israeli soldiers. Only a half-hearted reprimand from Chief of the General Staff Herzi Halevi (56) followed. Even among many who do not fight, Netanyahu’s government is anything but popular. Goldfuss’ scolding must have been music to her ears.

Goldfuss studied political science in Haifa and temporarily attended the elite American university Harvard. His actions, which made him known throughout Israel, may have laid the foundation for a later political career. It would not be the first time that a high-ranking army representative would move to the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, after stepping down. Defense Minister Yoav Galant (65) and his predecessor Benny Gantz (64) have two ex-soldiers in the war cabinet.

Source: Blick