Jerusalem - In a significant move, Galit Distel Atbaryan, a former member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Cabinet and a lawmaker from his Likud Party, issued a public apology on Sunday for her role in the internal divisions that preceded the attack by Hamas militants on October 7th. This attack led to a prolonged and devastating war that has lasted for nearly three months.

Distel Atbaryan's apology is noteworthy as it marks one of the first instances where a Likud member has taken responsibility for the polarized atmosphere that contributed to the Hamas attack. Acknowledging the argument that internal divisions created a perception of weakness, which emboldened Hamas, Distel Atbaryan expressed remorse for her part in fueling the discord.

The Likud lawmaker specifically cited her involvement in the massive protests and civil unrest that erupted after Netanyahu's government attempted to implement a comprehensive overhaul of the judicial system. The controversial move triggered nationwide demonstrations, concerned business leaders and former security chiefs, and drew attention from the United States and other close allies.

Distel Atbaryan, who previously served as the public diplomacy minister, had been known as a staunch supporter of Netanyahu and had gained attention for her fierce criticism of his opponents. However, she now acknowledges the negative consequences of the internal unrest during wartime, stating that her office was a "waste of public funds."

Despite her apology, Distel Atbaryan has chosen to retain her position as a member of parliament within the Likud Party. Her public admission of responsibility for contributing to the internal strife in Israel raises questions about the larger dynamics within Likud and the party's approach to achieving unity and stability in the country.

The apology by Galit Distel Atbaryan is a notable step towards reconciliation and accountability, although its impact on the ongoing war and the efforts towards peace remains to be seen. As the conflict in Israel continues, it is crucial for leaders and politicians to evaluate their actions and strive for a more cohesive society that can effectively address external threats while maintaining internal harmony.

In closing, Distel Atbaryan's apology serves as a reminder of the importance of leaders taking responsibility for their actions and the role they play in shaping the political climate of a nation.