Image: Yair Golan addressing the public. Source: Pixabay
Introduction: A Nation Divided
In a single radio interview, Israeli politician Yair Golan unleashed a firestorm that has gripped the nation and reverberated globally. His claim that Israel “kills babies as a hobby” in Gaza has sparked outrage, uniting government and opposition in condemnation. This scandal, unfolding in May 2025, raises profound questions about morality, war, and Israel’s future. Join us as we dive into this controversy, savor a classic Israeli dish, and explore the country’s culture and scientific strides.
Golan’s Shocking Statement
On May 20, 2025, Yair Golan, chairman of Israel’s Democrats party and a former IDF major general, told Kan public radio, “A sane country does not wage war against civilians, does not kill babies for a hobby, and does not set goals involving the expulsion of populations.” He warned that Israel risks becoming a “pariah state” like apartheid-era South Africa if it continues its current path. The Times of Israel reported immediate backlash, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeling the remarks “wild incitement” and “antisemitic blood libels” against the IDF and Israel.
[](https://www.timesofisrael.com/outrage-as-opposition-party-leader-golan-says-israel-killing-babies-as-a-hobby-in-gaza/)Opposition leader Yair Lapid called Golan’s words a “gift to our enemies,” while Education Minister Yoav Kisch demanded an incitement investigation, noting Golan’s lack of Knesset immunity. Military chief Eyal Zamir condemned the remarks for questioning the IDF’s morality. Arab News highlighted Golan’s defense on X, where he argued he was sounding the alarm against the far-right policies of ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, warning of a “divided state.”
[](https://www.arabnews.com/node/2601431/world)Scandals and Achievements
Golan’s “babies as hobby” statement is his most explosive scandal to date, drawing comparisons to his 2016 speech likening Israeli societal trends to pre-Holocaust Europe, which also sparked controversy. The Jerusalem Post noted his history of opposing Netanyahu, including accusing the prime minister in November 2024 of prioritizing political interests over national security by dismissing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Despite the scandals, Golan’s achievements include rising to IDF deputy chief of staff and leading the Democrats party, a merger of Labor and Meretz, advocating for progressive values.
[](https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-854678)A Geopolitical Flashpoint: Gaza Conflict
Golan’s remarks come amid Israel’s ongoing Gaza offensive, which intensified in May 2025 with strikes killing over 300 Palestinians, including 60 overnight, according to The Independent. The conflict, aimed at freeing hostages and defeating Hamas, has drawn global criticism, with allies like Canada and France threatening sanctions. Golan’s rare critique from within Israel highlights the war’s toll on civilians, amplifying debates about the nation’s moral compass.
[](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/israel-gaza-yair-golan-netanyahu-b2754280.html)Savoring Israel: Falafel Recipe
Amid this turmoil, let’s celebrate Israel’s culinary heart with Falafel, crispy chickpea balls that are a street food staple, uniting diverse communities with their irresistible flavor.
Falafel Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Drain soaked chickpeas and blend with onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper until coarse.
- Form mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry falafel until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve in pita with tahini, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Folk Medicine: Olive Oil and Lemon
A cherished Israeli folk remedy involves mixing 1 tablespoon of warm olive oil with the juice of half a lemon to soothe sore throats. This Mediterranean tradition, rooted in Jewish households, is believed to reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
Mental Health in Israel
In 2025, Israel faces rising anxiety linked to the Gaza conflict, with mental health experts reporting increased demand for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Community support groups are also gaining traction to help residents cope with war-related stress.
Israel in Space
Israel’s space agency, partnering with NASA, launched a lunar mission in 2025 to analyze moon soil, contributing to global efforts to understand lunar resources and advance space exploration.
Conclusion: A Call for Reflection
Y Ascendant Yair Golan’s words have ignited a painful but necessary debate about Israel’s path forward. As the nation grapples with war and division, its culinary and scientific contributions remind us of its resilience. Share your thoughts on this controversy at Planet-Today.com.