Forum of Heroism board member Menachem Kalmanson accuses Israeli leaders of betraying fallen soldiers and demands a complete blockade on Gaza to defeat Hamas.
Jerusalem —
Menachem Kalmanson, bereaved brother, Israel Prize recipient, and executive board member of the Forum of Heroism, issued a fierce condemnation of government policy toward Gaza this week, demanding the immediate imposition of a total siege on the territory and accusing the government of failing to honor its promises to the Israeli public and its soldiers.
In a forceful public statement, Kalmanson called for cutting off all water, electricity, and fuel to northern Gaza, and ending the flow of humanitarian aid, which he alleged benefits Hamas directly.
“We were forced into this war nearly two years ago—a war of unparalleled justice—and the price has been steep,” Kalmanson said. “I remember the horrors of Hamas. This week, Syria reminded us again: this is the same ideology as ISIS and the extremist Sunni militias. The same terror, the same brutality.”
Kalmanson, who lost a brother in the conflict, warned of a dangerous erosion of national will and strategic clarity.
“Our people and our soldiers went out with determination, knowing that Hamas cannot be allowed to exist just meters from our towns and kibbutzim. Yet, instead of dismantling their presence, the government is inching toward concessions.”
He directly criticized Israeli leadership, accusing them of “appeasement” and “contempt for the lives of soldiers”, stating that decisions not to act decisively have led to an expanding circle of bereaved families.
“You made a promise—now fulfill it. The public gave you a mandate to defeat Hamas. Instead, we see hesitation and exhaustion. This is not leadership. This is betrayal.”
Kalmanson decried the ongoing delivery of aid into Gaza, claiming it fuels the enemy while Israeli troops risk their lives defending aid routes and humanitarian hubs.
“Commanders on the front lines watch trucks flow into Hamas hands while protecting those very convoys. Food and water move freely, while our people suffer.”
He insisted that northern Gaza be sealed off entirely:
“No water, no electricity, no fuel. Let the civilians move south—the infrastructure is already there. There’s no need to create a new humanitarian city.”
Reaffirming his solidarity with residents of the Gaza envelope, Kalmanson said they cannot be expected to live under the threat of Hamas next door.
“We can’t confine our citizens to shelters while terrorists sit just meters away. This land was paid for in blood. We must not abandon it.”
Concluding his statement, Kalmanson issued a final demand to Israel’s leaders:
“Your mandate has run out. The time has come to act. Fulfill your promise. Restore security. End the war.”
