After years of uncertainty surrounding the health of the military wing leader of Hamas, Mohammed Dheif, the Israeli army released videos showing him walking and in better condition than previously thought. In this context, Knesset member Simcha Rothman (Religious Zionist Party), head of the Knesset’s Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee, discussed the issue during a radio interview, stating: "We must acknowledge our errors and conduct an investigation… those responsible for the Mohammed Dheif situation must be held accountable. What is concerning is that we have been searching in the wrong places or deceiving ourselves for years."
When asked by interviewer Gadi Niss whether Rothman believes the entire intelligence system has failed, he responded: "Indeed, but it goes beyond just Mohammed Dheif… the issue of security after the war is critical. In recent weeks, near Jenin, there have been attempts by terrorists trying to infiltrate settlements… We need immediate action, not theoretical discussions for the future."
Regarding the special committee established to address "punishing terrorists for the October 7 events," Rothman commented: "This committee divided the details, information, and considerations… It is important to emphasize that even in wartime, there must be oversight. The coalition and the opposition should understand the government's actions to ensure the necessary work is done… Knesset members represent the entire public."
Rothman suggested that cooperation among the Minister of Justice, the Attorney General, and relevant security officials be transparent, emphasizing the "necessity to address the longstanding issue of inadequate criminal law in combating terrorism." He continued, "The death penalty for terrorists exists in both military and civilian domains, and punishment is our weakest concern."
Concerning a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons in Gaza, Rothman stated: "I have expressed my position on the ceasefire and fuel supplies; we cannot be complacent as a state or army… If we do not act quickly, disappointment will prevail." He added: "We must demand actions to prevent a situation similar to what happened in Jenin just a few meters away… We cannot allow Kfar Saba to turn into a village in Gaza… The legal and political systems must move quickly."
Commenting on "those who failed to understand the events of October 7," Rothman firmly said: "Those who continue unchanged must be removed… We must recognize the importance of October 7." Rothman also addressed judicial reform and the context tied by some parties to October 7, saying: "I would be surprised if Mohammed Dheif's recovery is not affected by the potential removal of the representative of the Bar Association from the Judges Selection Committee." Rothman ignored polls and elections during wartime, stating: "This is not the time for ballot boxes… Elections are not on the horizon, especially during war… I avoid referencing or reading them."
