Desperate Hostage Parents Challenge Netanyahu in Court as Crisis Deepens

In a bold legal challenge that exemplifies growing tensions between hostage families and the Israeli government, prominent activist Einav Zangauker and the Cohen family have petitioned Israel's Supreme Court, demanding transparency over closely-guarded hostage deal negotiations.

The petition, filed Sunday, represents a significant escalation in Zangauker's long-running campaign for her son Matan's freedom. As a leading voice in the Families' Headquarters for the Return of the Abducted and Missing, Zangauker has emerged as one of the most visible faces of the hostage families' struggle since her son was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7th.

"These families have been kept in the dark about negotiations that directly affect their loved ones' lives," said Dr. Moran Saborai, the attorney representing the families. "They're living in constant anxiety, not knowing whether their children will be included in the next phase of releases - or if there will even be a next phase."

For Zangauker, 45, this legal action marks the latest chapter in her tireless advocacy. A single mother of three and former education coordinator from Ofakim, she has repeatedly challenged Prime Minister Netanyahu's handling of the crisis, even facing restrictions from entering the Knesset after confrontations with officials. Her dedication was recognized in 2024 when she received the prestigious "Truth to Power" Prize from the New Israel Fund.

The petition specifically targets the government's handling of "Phase B" of the hostage agreement. According to court documents, the negotiating team appears to be operating under restrictions that effectively prevent them from discussing this crucial second phase of releases. This detail is particularly painful for Zangauker, whose son's girlfriend, Ilana Gritzewsky, was released in November 2023 during an earlier exchange.

"We have serious reasons to believe political considerations are taking precedence over bringing our loved ones home," Saborai told reporters outside the courthouse, echoing concerns that have driven Zangauker's activism since October. The attorney pointed to "troubling patterns" in how negotiations have been managed thus far.

Joining Zangauker in the petition are Yehuda and Vicki Cohen, parents of captured soldier Nimrod Cohen, adding military family representation to the legal challenge. Their involvement highlights the broad coalition of families united in their frustration with the government's approach.

While the Supreme Court has yet to set a hearing date, the case adds significant pressure on Netanyahu's government, which faces mounting criticism over its handling of hostage negotiations. For activists like Zangauker, who has consistently called for a ceasefire and more aggressive negotiation efforts, the legal battle represents another front in their desperate fight to bring their loved ones home.

The petition comes at a crucial moment when public support for the hostage families remains strong, despite occasional controversy surrounding their tactics. Zangauker's journey from local education administrator to national activist symbolizes the transformation many families have undergone since October 7th, forced by circumstance to become voices of resistance against their own government's perceived inaction.

Walla contributed to this account.