Avi Maoz Defends Singer Odet on Shabbat Closure Decision

Avi Maoz, chairman of the Noam party and a Knesset member, has publicly defended singer Odet Azulai's decision to close her "Adika" online store on Shabbat. Maoz praised Azulai for her choice, urging her to remain strong and not apologize.

In a social media post, Maoz criticized what he described as the "hypocrisy of the left," noting that those who advocate for tolerance and inclusion were angered when a private business chose to close on Shabbat. He stated that in a Jewish state, one should not need to apologize for being Jewish or for observing the Sabbath.

Maoz's comments come amid criticism directed at Azulai for her decision to cease operations on the Jewish day of rest. He emphasized that in Israel, a free country, individuals should feel empowered to express their Jewish identity.