Rabbi Benny Lau Warns of Growing Racism and Potential Civil Strife

Rabbi Benny Lau has issued a stark warning about the increasing racism and potential for civil conflict within the Religious Zionist community. In a recent interview, he stated that the term 'Arab' is now often considered an enemy word, a trend he believes predates but was significantly amplified by the October 7th attacks, leading to what he describes as racism.

Lau criticized the growing acceptance of Kahanism within the sector, recalling a time when it was considered beyond the pale. He expressed concern that extremist figures, once on the fringes, now lead key educational institutions like religious academies and pre-military programs. He lamented the absence of a moderate, unifying voice within the Religious Zionist movement, contrasting it with the legacies of Rabbis Yehuda Amital and Jonathan Sacks.

The rabbi specifically targeted Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, labeling him an "activist messiah" pushing for rapid, radical change, a departure from the gradual approach he associates with earlier Religious Zionist leaders. Lau questioned whether Smotrich's supporters, particularly those focused on settlement expansion, understand the potential consequences, including fostering "Jewish terrorism" and risking civil war.

Lau voiced deep concern about the possibility of violent clashes between settlers and IDF soldiers if a future government attempts to evacuate settlements on private land. He fears that unlike during the Gaza disengagement, there may be no "responsible adult" to prevent widespread conflict and a potential civil war.

Looking towards the upcoming elections, Rabbi Lau expressed a desire to vote for a "Zionist party" that takes responsibility. He specifically stated his hope that Gadi Eisenkot would assume leadership and called for unity among various factions. While acknowledging a past closeness to Benny Gantz, Lau suggested Gantz's recent political chapter had been "very, very demeaning."