Prominent Rabbis Permit Voting for Arab Candidates Loyal to Israel

Rabbi Shlomo Aviner, president of the Ateret Cohanim yeshiva, recently stated that it is forbidden to vote for Arab candidates, specifically referencing Yosef Haddad, who is running for Knesset. In response, the organization Rabbis for Tzahor (TZohar) issued a clarification on Wednesday, asserting that major halachic authorities have permitted voting for non-Jewish candidates.

Rabbis for Tzahor argued that supporting loyal Arab citizens who recognize Israel's Jewish identity and sovereignty strengthens the nation, especially when some in the non-Jewish public incite against the state. They highlighted Haddad's extensive work for Israel, including his military service and injury sustained defending the country. The rabbis drew a parallel to King David appointing Itai the Gittite, a non-Jew, as a senior commander due to his loyalty.

The organization emphasized that integrating loyal non-Jewish citizens into state systems enhances Israel's resilience. They cited historical halachic rulings by figures like Rabbi Herzog and Rabbi Waldenberg, which permit electing non-Jews to the Knesset, stating that restrictions on appointing a 'king' do not apply to modern democratic governance. Therefore, they concluded, it is permissible to vote for an Arab candidate who is loyal to the state, noting that both Jewish and non-Jewish individuals have served in the Knesset and government throughout Israel's history.

Rabbi Aviner's original response, published by Arutz 7, advised against voting for a party with a non-Jewish candidate, citing Rambam's laws of kings. He clarified that this prohibition applies to leadership roles and does not negate the individual's status as a citizen, stating that a non-Jew can be a private citizen but not a leader.