Minister Wasserman Mourns Colleague's Departure from Knesset

Minister Yitzhak Wasserman of the Otzma Yehudit party posted a heartfelt farewell to Knesset Member Michael Biton, who announced he would not be running for re-election. Wasserman expressed deep personal sadness at Biton's departure, calling him the "soul of the Knesset."

Wasserman described their unlikely political alliance, noting that despite being on opposite sides of the political spectrum, Biton consistently offered him support, advice, and connections within civil society organizations. They worked together on initiatives to promote growth in the Negev and Galilee regions, with Wasserman serving as minister and Biton as chairman of the Special Committee for the Development of the Negev and Galilee.

Wasserman highlighted Biton's integrity, stating that he never sought personal credit or political advantage from their collaboration. Instead of engaging in partisan attacks, Biton chose dialogue and mutual respect, even when they disagreed.

The minister also shared deeply personal anecdotes, recounting how Biton visited his father in the hospital during his final days and sang to him. They supported each other through personal joys and sorrows, including comforting others and sharing their own grief. Following the October 7th attacks, they worked together processing public inquiries, always focusing on the individual behind each request and seeking ways to offer comfort even when solutions were impossible.

Wasserman concluded by expressing his love and admiration for Biton, stating, "The next Knesset may have to learn to manage without you. I will not."