Government’s Response to War Criticized in NSC Document

By Aryeh Stern

A document circulated within the National Security Council highlights significant shortcomings in the government’s response to the ongoing war, emphasizing the need to address the neglected needs of evacuated residents in the north. The assessment, conducted three months after the Hamas massacre and subsequent war, gives the government failing grades for its handling of the crisis and citizen needs.

The document criticizes the government’s grade of D- for responding to the wounded, captive, and missing, citing unmet expectations regarding hostage release deals. The return to a sense of security for Israelis receives a failing grade, with a reminder that forming local defense teams does not absolve the government of its responsibility.

Low marks are assigned for mending the fractured society, particularly noting increasing belligerence toward hostage families. The financial crisis affecting many citizens since the war began earns the government a resounding F, with insufficient support for those serving in the reserves.

The document also highlights underwhelming government responses in critical decision-making, education, and the economy. Hospitals receive commendation for handling the wounded, but the public response of the health system overall is deemed lacking.

While strategic supplies stocks, the judicial system, and volunteering receive top marks, the government is urged to address the documented failures.

The National Security Council responded, stating that the circulated document represents a personal opinion and does not reflect the council’s official position. They emphasized that the council’s leadership had not discussed the content, and a formal response would be provided after formulating the council’s position.