Title: Prime Minister Netanyahu Sparks Controversy with Controversial Statement
Subtitle: Ultra-Orthodox media and politicians react strongly to Netanyahu’s comments
Date: September 8, 2023
In a recent cabinet meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a remark that has sparked widespread criticism and outrage. The comment, made during a discussion about preparations for the upcoming Rosh Hashanah trip to Uman in Ukraine, saw Netanyahu stating that “God did not always protect us.”
The ultra-Orthodox media has been thrown into turmoil following Netanyahu’s statement, which has left many in disbelief. The prime minister’s comments have been interpreted as questioning the divine protection that Jews have historically relied upon.
Israeli Rabbi and Knesset member Israel Eichler responded strongly to Netanyahu’s words, criticizing the Zionist leadership and blaming them for the Holocaust and subsequent Jewish suffering. While Eichler acknowledged that Jewish communities outside of Israel have enjoyed relative peace, he argued that only in the Land of Israel has Jewish blood been shed in such quantities.
Eichler further accused the Israeli government of failures and crimes, suggesting that the leaders in power have been condemning Israel on the international stage. The remarks from Rabbi Eichler have been met with condemnation from several politicians and officials.
Education Minister Yoav Kish, the grandson of a brigadier who fought against the Nazis, called on Eichler to retract his statements, describing them as anti-Zionist slurs. Similarly, Knesset member Naama to Zimi expressed shock and labeled Eichler’s words as the most anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist text she had read coming from a member of the current Israeli government.
Notably, Avigdor Lieberman, the Chairman of the Israel Beitenu party, criticized the ultra-Orthodox coalition that he believes to be leading Israel towards destruction due to their anti-Zionist ideology. Lieberman called for a disbandment of the coalition and the formation of a wall-to-wall Zionist and liberal government.
Netanyahu’s remark has sparked discord and highlighted the deep divisions within Israeli politics, particularly between the ultra-Orthodox community and the more secular Zionist factions. The prime minister’s comments, whether intended or not, have raised questions about the traditionally accepted belief in divine protection, leading to intense debate on religious and political platforms across the country.
As the controversy continues, the fallout from the prime minister’s statement will undoubtedly have significant repercussions throughout Israeli society.