What It’s About
The families of IDF lookout soldiers killed in a surprise attack on October 7 are advocating for the release of recordings from their daughters’ final shifts. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have deemed these recordings classified, upholding that they cannot be shared.
Why It Matters
This heartbreaking request from the grieving parents spotlights the emotional and human cost of maintaining national security. By sharing their stories, they aim not only to find closure but also to understand the events that transpired, reinforcing the mutual trust between bereaved families and the military institution. At the core is a quest for transparency and preserving the memory of these brave soldiers.
The Demands for Closure
Edna Mor, who lost her daughter Shirel in the attack, expresses the unbearable void left behind. “I miss her so much. I have a few recordings from concerts she participated in, and some recorded messages. But I miss her voice; I want them to bring back her voice to me,” said Edna. For her and other parents, not knowing the final moments of their daughters’ lives only adds to their profound sense of loss.
Longing for Answers
These families have sought recordings from the IDF since shortly after the event, hoping to find answers and perhaps understand the circumstances more clearly. There is an unwavering determination for transparency on what transpired during the critical hours before the attack.
IDF’s Stance
The IDF maintains its position, keeping operational and intelligence information confidential to protect the integrity of military operations. Nonetheless, they have provided some recordings but those mainly related to command center communications during the raid on October 7.
The Path Forward
While the IDF prioritizes national security and operational confidentiality, the plea from these parents highlights the need for humane consideration and a potential balanced approach to address their grief. The IDF’s responses to such concerns could significantly impact familial trust and the strength of national unity.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.