What happened:

During a demonstration near the Likud’s Rosh Hashanah celebration in Netanya, Eli Elbag, the father of hostage Liri Elbag, was attacked with eggs by protesters.

Why it matters:

The assault has sparked significant outrage among prominent Israeli journalists, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and support for families affected by hostage situations.

Key voices:

Geula Even-Sa’ar and Nissim Mishal, speaking on 103FM, condemned the attack, labeling it “shameful and disgraceful.”

“The person who confronted and assaulted Eli Elbag is disgraceful,” Mishal stated.

Even-Sa’ar added passionately, “Eli Elbag has every right to demonstrate. His calm and polite demeanor, driven solely by the desire to bring his daughter back, should be respected. Accusing him of being funded by Sinwar is irrational and detestable.”

The broader context:

The incident has sparked a broader discussion on Israel’s current ceasefire with Hezbollah. Even-Sa’ar questioned the logic behind the ceasefire, arguing that Hezbollah’s ties with Gaza necessitate a significant response against Nasrallah, ensuring safety for residents of northern Israel.

What’s next:

The voices of journalists like Even-Sa’ar and Mishal highlight the Israeli public’s commitment to standing by frightened and grieving hostage families amidst geopolitical tensions and internal conflicts.

This story was first published on jpost.com.