Gerrer Hassidim Back Down on Demand for Written Pledge from Sanz Faction

Representatives of the Gerrer Hassidic dynasty attempted to assert authority by demanding a written commitment from the Sanz Hassidic group, but ultimately retreated after their demand was refused. The confrontation took place during a tense meeting in Netanya.

Sources within the Sanz community stated that they are only subservient to the Council of Torah Sages and their own Rebbe, the Sanz Rebbe, and not to any other Hassidic court. This firm stance was communicated to the Gerrer delegation, which included Motty Batzik, Yonatan Hassid, and Chanoch Draenger. They met with Sanz representatives Berel Shtemer and Reichman in a final effort to pressure them.

The Gerrer faction had sought a signed pledge, similar to one previously given, asserting their demand was made on behalf of the Gerrer Rebbe. However, the Sanz representatives rejected this outright, stating, "This will not happen, we will not repeat a mistake twice."

During the meeting, the Sanz delegation emphasized their independence, declaring, "We are not subservient to you. We also have a Rebbe, and his opinion and decision carry exactly the same weight as the opinions of the Rebbes of Gur, Vizhnitz, and Belz." The meeting concluded with the Sanz faction reiterating their sole allegiance to their Council of Torah Sages and their Rebbe, leading the Gerrer representatives to withdraw their demand.

The dispute highlights internal tensions within the Agudat Yisrael political party.