Netanyahu’s Spokesperson Clarifies: These Terrorists Will Not Be Released in the Deal

Omer Dostri, spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, responded firmly today (Wednesday) to rumors suggesting that the terrorists responsible for the brutal Fogel family massacre might be released as part of an upcoming hostage deal. In a post on his X account (formerly Twitter), Dostri denounced the claims as “fake news.”

Elihai Ben-Yishai, brother of Ruth Fogel OBM, tragically killed in the 2011 attack, expressed outrage over the reports. “If the reports I’ve been receiving this morning about the potential release of the murderers of my sister Ruth Fogel OBM and her family are true, then Israel has officially gone mad. Madness cannot be corrected with more madness,” he wrote.

 

Prime Minister’s Office: No Release for Fogel Family Terrorists

The post sparked widespread indignation, with many voicing their anger online. Comments ranged from “How did we reach such insanity?” to “Releasing terrorists as a reward for extortion is a despicable method.” Dostri swiftly addressed the public’s concerns, reiterating unequivocally: “This is fake news.”

Remembering the Fogel Family Massacre

On Friday night, March 11, 2011, in the town of Itamar, terrorists from the village of Awarta murdered parents Ehud and Ruth Fogel and three of their children—Yoav, Elad, and Hadas. The heinous act, carried out with knives and firearms, sent shockwaves through Israel. The perpetrators, 18-year-old Hakim Mazen Awad and 19-year-old Amjad Mohammed Awad, were captured and each sentenced to over 130 years in prison.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Hostage Negotiations

The controversy emerges as Israel grapples with hostage negotiations involving Hamas. While the nation prays for the safe return of its captives, the Fogel family’s case underscores the need for justice and unwavering resolve against terrorism. As Israel stands united, the principle of defending life and honoring the memory of victims remains paramount, rooted in biblical calls for justice and righteousness.

God is deeply attentive to the shedding of innocent blood, as it is written: “Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground” – Genesis 4:10. This divine truth underscores the sacredness of every life and the unyielding call for justice. We must always remember the lives of the Fogel family and other victims, honoring their memory with a steadfast cry for justice and the unwavering pursuit of righteousness.