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Empathy in Leadership: A Demand for Immediate Change in the Knesset
The events of October 7, 2023, have left deep scars on Israeli society. The pain of families whose loved ones were abducted by Hamas is immeasurable, and their voices must be met with empathy, understanding, and decisive action—not hostility or deflection. Yet, recent events in the Knesset have starkly highlighted a shocking and unacceptable lack of awareness of mental health and trauma within our leadership. Such ignorance not only deepens the suffering of these families but undermines the dignity of the Knesset itself.
During a Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee meeting, Yehuda Cohen, father of hostage Nimrod Cohen, voiced his anguish. In an emotional plea, he expressed the desperation of a parent whose son remains captive in Gaza. Instead of receiving the understanding and compassion such grief demands, he was met with outright hostility from MK Eliyahu Revivo. The public berating of a grieving father by an elected official is a disgrace to the very principles of leadership and humanity.
Inhumane Behavior Must End
There can be no justification for elected officials—representatives entrusted with the nation’s welfare—to act with such cruelty and disregard for those they are meant to serve. Yes, Knesset members are human, but this cannot excuse inhumane behavior aimed at political gain. The exchange between Revivo and Cohen highlights a pervasive issue: the lack of education and awareness about trauma and mental health among Israel’s leaders.
This ignorance is not a trivial oversight; it has real and devastating consequences. Families of the hostages live in a state of constant, unimaginable anxiety. Their calls for action are not political ploys but cries for help, borne out of love and desperation. To dismiss or berate them is to perpetuate their trauma and alienate those most in need of support.
Immediate Action Needed: Education on Mental Health for the Knesset
The time for change is now. The Knesset must implement mandatory education and training in trauma-informed practices for all its members and staff. This is not optional—it is essential to ensure that those in positions of power can respond with empathy and understanding, especially in times of national crisis. Such training must include:
- A foundational understanding of trauma and its effects on individuals and families.
- Techniques for engaging compassionately with constituents, even in emotionally charged situations.
- Strategies for prioritizing the well-being of the public over political or ideological interests.
Allowing elected officials to act with impunity—to berate and humiliate those in pain—is unacceptable and cannot continue. The Knesset must set a higher standard for itself. Anything less is a betrayal of the Israeli people and the values we hold dear.
Standing With the Families
To the families of hostages, please know that your voices matter. Your pain is valid, and your relentless advocacy is a testament to the unbreakable bond of love. You should never have to endure dismissal or disdain when all you seek is the return of your loved ones. Every Israeli citizen and leader have to stand with you, amplify your voices, and demand action.
To the Knesset, this is your wake-up call. The behavior witnessed in recent committee meetings is a stain on your institution. You are entrusted with the well-being of this nation, including listening to and supporting those suffering most. The pain of these families is not a political inconvenience; it is a national responsibility.
This must be a turning point. We must not only work toward the release of every captive but also toward building a society and a government that values compassion over cruelty, humanity over hostility, and empathy over ego.
The Knesset must lead by example, showing that leadership is not about power but service, understanding, and unwavering support for those in need.
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