Israeli Politicians Mark School Year Start with Public Appearances

Millions of Israeli students returned to school on Tuesday, September 1, with politicians across the spectrum joining them for public appearances ahead of the upcoming elections. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the "Ben Zion Netanyahu" school in Ramla, which was rebuilt after being damaged by an Iranian missile during the war. He was accompanied by Education Minister Yoav Kisch and Ramla Mayor Michael Vidal, with the visit emphasizing resilience and a return to routine.

National Unity party chairman Gadi Eisenkot toured schools in Nahariya, a city in northern Israel that has faced security challenges. He stressed the need for a continuous, calm, and secure school year for students and teachers, stating, "After years of war, we must provide the student, the teacher, and the parent with security and stability that will allow them to build, be built, and fulfill themselves without fear."

Other political figures also made appearances. President Isaac Herzog and his wife Michal visited the "Gvanim" school in the Mateh Asher Regional Council, releasing a red balloon in prayer for the safe return of hostage Haimnot Kassao. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich attended a religious school in Kfar Tapuach, highlighting significant investments in education.

Controversy arose around the distribution of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's children's book, "The Minister Who Didn't Stop," outside schools. The Central Elections Committee rejected a petition to ban the free distribution, deeming it permissible after clarifications were made regarding election laws. Meanwhile, activists in Tel Aviv posted stickers criticizing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana near the school his children attend, a move Ohana condemned as a vile attack on his children.