In uncommon apology, Israeli minister says she ‘sinned’ for her position in reforms that tore nation aside

JERUSALEM — A former member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet provided a uncommon public apology Sunday for contributing to the inner strife in Israel that preceded the Oct. 7 assault by Hamas militants from the Gaza Strip.

The mea culpa by Galit Distel Atbaryan, a lawmaker from Netanyahu’s Likud Party, was one of many first instances a Likud member has accepted accountability for the polarized ambiance forward of the assault, which triggered a devastating battle that has continued for almost three months.

Distel Atbaryan appeared to simply accept the argument that the inner divisions created perceptions of weak point that inspired Hamas to assault.

“I’m here sitting and telling you, the democratic, secular public: I sinned against you, I caused pain for you, I caused you to fear for your lives here, and I am sorry for this,” she advised Channel 13 TV.

Distel Atbaryan added that she was taking accountability for her position within the huge protests and civil discord that erupted after Netanyahu’s right-wing authorities tried to implement a far-reaching overhaul of the judicial system. The disaster sparked mass protests, alarmed enterprise leaders and former safety chiefs, and drew concern from the United States and different shut allies.

“I was one of those people that caused the state to be weakened, that harmed people,” she stated. “I created a split, I created a rift, and I created tension. And this tension brought weakness. And this weakness, in many ways, brought massacre.”

Distel Atbaryan, who served as public diplomacy minister, was considered one of Netanyahu‘s strongest supporters and drew consideration for her harsh criticism of his opponents.

But days after the Oct. 7 assault, she resigned when it was clear that different authorities ministries have been dealing with her obligations.

Distel Atbaryan stated the workplace was a “waste of public funds” throughout wartime. She has remained as a member of parliament within the Likud.