Recent reports suggested that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prevented Shai Hermesh, a bereaved father who lost his son on October 7, from participating in a Jerusalem Day event due to an anti-government column he had written. However, the Cabinet Secretary has denied these claims, stating that Hermesh was not barred from the event.
Following criticism, the Prime Minister’s aide has announced that Hermesh will be given the opportunity to read a prayer at the state ceremony, allowing him to pay tribute to his late son and participate in the event.
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Despite initial rumors, it seems that Hermesh will indeed have a role in the Jerusalem Day event, bringing closure and honoring his son’s memory in the process. This decision highlights the importance of including all voices, even those critical of the government, in national events as a way of promoting unity and understanding.