Rabbi Aviner Sparks Controversy Over Non-Jewish Leadership Roles

Rabbi Shlomo Aviner stated on Wednesday that it is forbidden to vote for a party that includes a non-Jewish candidate, specifically addressing the inclusion of Yosef Haddad in Ofer Winter's "Am Yisrael" party. Aviner declared, "One cannot give a gentile leadership roles over the nation in Israel." He elaborated that even a "Righteous Gentile" cannot be a leader in Israel, though they can be a private citizen. Haddad, who served in the Golani Brigade and was wounded in combat, is a prominent Arab-Israeli activist.

Ofer Winter, the head of the "Am Yisrael" party, responded by defending Haddad, stating, "Whoever is worthy of fighting and being wounded is worthy of leadership." He expressed pride in Haddad's military service and sacrifice for the nation. Minister Bezalel Smotrich also supported Haddad, telling Kan News that there is "no problem" with Haddad being on the list, calling him a Zionist who loves the country and served in the IDF.

The Tzohar Rabbinical Organization countered Aviner's stance, asserting that prominent halachic authorities permit voting for non-Jewish Knesset members. They emphasized the importance of strengthening Arab citizens who recognize Israel, especially when some non-Jewish elements incite against the state. This controversy arises as Winter also revealed his full Knesset list, which includes Haddad and Netali Shem Tov, while Smotrich urged Winter not to take risks and to unite.