Prominent Rabbi Rejects Halachic Ban on Non-Jewish Knesset Candidates

Rabbi David Stav, chairman of the Tzohar Rabbinical Organization, has publicly stated that Jewish law does not prohibit voting for non-Jewish candidates for the Knesset, calling such claims "erroneous and incorrect." He addressed the controversy surrounding the candidacy of Yosef Haddad on the list of Yoaz Hendel and Brig. Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter, asserting that neither halacha nor morality dictates a blanket disqualification of non-Jewish candidates.

Rabbi Stav cited opinions from prominent rabbis such as Rabbi Herzog, Rabbi Waldenberg, and Rabbi Yaakov Ariel, who have written that there is no impediment to electing non-Jewish members of Knesset within Israel's democratic system. He argued that barring non-Jews from serving in the Knesset while expecting them to serve and potentially die for the country sends a damaging message to the Arab public and is morally and legally flawed.

Regarding the issue of voting for parties uncertain to pass the electoral threshold, Rabbi Stav stated that the decision rests with the individual voter's discretion. He believes halacha does not address this specific concern, and voters should weigh their desire to influence policy against choosing a party that best aligns with their views, while acknowledging most voters prefer parties that will pass the threshold.

He also emphasized that participating in elections is a religious commandment, citing the obligation to establish a government and the importance of influencing its policies. Rabbi Stav clarified that the Tzohar organization is not aligned with any single political party, with its members spread across the political spectrum, and he personally has declined offers to enter politics.

Addressing the case of Givati Brigade soldiers who were court-martialed, Rabbi Stav stressed the IDF's adherence to joint service orders, allowing exceptions only in extreme life-threatening situations. He firmly stated that no rabbinical authority can supersede that of the Chief Rabbi, declaring, "There is one rabbi for the army, the Chief Rabbi."

Finally, Rabbi Stav offered reflections on the upcoming Rosh Hashanah holiday, describing it as a time for hope, renewal, and introspection.