Top Rabbi Says Non-Jews Cannot Lead Israel, Sparking Debate

Rabbi Shlomo Aviner, a prominent figure in Religious Zionism, stated that a non-Jewish individual cannot hold a leadership position in Israel, even if they are recognized as a "Righteous Among the Nations." Aviner's remarks came in response to a question about supporting a political party with a non-Jewish candidate in a senior position, implicitly referring to Yosef Haddad, who is second on the "Amcha Israel" party list.

During a lesson, Rabbi Aviner was asked if it was permissible to vote for a party whose number two candidate is not Jewish. He responded unequivocally, "Certainly not." He elaborated that while a non-Jewish person should be treated well, they cannot be given leadership roles over the nation unless they fit specific definitions of a convert or resident, which he implied Haddad did not.

When pressed about whether a "Righteous Among the Nations" could lead, Aviner maintained that such a person could be a private citizen but not a national leader. The "Amcha Israel" party rejected Aviner's stance. Party chairman Ofer Winter, while not directly attacking Aviner, disagreed with the assertion that non-Jews are ineligible for leadership roles in Israel.

Winter recounted his military experience, stating that he commanded and was commanded by Druze, Bedouin, and Christian leaders and soldiers who were willing to risk their lives for the country. He asserted that these individuals were worthy of following into battle and are capable of leading. Winter also addressed Haddad directly, expressing pride in his service as a commander in the Golani Brigade and his willingness to risk his life for the people of Israel, for which he was wounded in battle.