"Resign, Then Get Out of Our Lives": Freed Hostage Rom Braslavski Scorches Knesset in Defiant Speech

In a searing address at the Knesset on Monday, freed hostage Rom Braslavski called for the immediate resignation of all members of Israel’s parliament and the establishment of a State Commission of Inquiry into the October 7 massacre.

Braslavski, who returned from captivity after two years in Gaza, delivered an emotional and scathing testimony, recounting the horrors he experienced during the massacre and throughout his prolonged imprisonment.

"Take Responsibility and Get Out of Our Lives"

Addressing the plenum, Braslavski directed his fury at the elected officials across the political spectrum:

The Failure of Leadership

Braslavski questioned how such a failure was possible under the current leadership's watch. "Why on earth did I have to go through this? Why did I have to be kidnapped from my home on your shift?" he asked. "The people responsible for this are sitting right here in the Knesset. Right here, a meter away from me."

The "Wretched" Silence

One of the most painful points of Braslavski's speech focused on the lack of personal accountability or outreach from government officials since his return:

The speech, which took place during a committee session on Monday afternoon, has resonated deeply as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of October 7 and the ongoing struggle for the return of remaining hostages.