Judy Shalom Nir Mozes Returns to Israel to Vote After Years Abroad

Media personality Judy Shalom Nir Mozes, who has been living in New York for the past three years, has returned to Israel specifically to vote in the upcoming elections. She revealed in a personal column that she grappled with a moral dilemma regarding the right of Israelis living abroad to vote, previously believing it unfair for those overseas to influence decisions with life-or-death consequences in Israel.

Her perspective shifted during a recent visit to Israel when she met a grieving mother whose son was killed in the Gaza war and another son was injured. Nir Mozes shared her internal debate with the mother, expressing her belief that those who return to New York shouldn't make decisions for those remaining in Israel. To her surprise, the bereaved mother insisted, "You must come."

This conversation deeply affected Nir Mozes, leading her to view the upcoming elections as existential. Her concerns extend beyond security to include rising crime, violent discourse, and the deteriorating education system. She expressed a profound fear about whether future generations will see Israel as a place to build their lives.

Despite her decision to vote, Nir Mozes remains committed to her original stance on how expatriates should participate. She stated, "I still believe that those living abroad must do so with humility... Therefore, I am not requesting a ballot box in New York. I am getting on a plane."