Liberman Reveals He Observes Three Fast Days Annually

Avigdor Liberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party and a Member of Knesset, stated on Monday that he observes three fast days each year: Yom Kippur, Tisha B'Av, and the Fast of Gedalia. He explained that the Fast of Gedalia, observed on the 3rd of Tishrei, commemorates the assassination of Gedaliah ben Achikam by Jews, an event that deepened internal divisions and led to the destruction of the remaining Jewish settlement in the Land of Israel.

Liberman emphasized the importance of unity, stating that without genuine mutual responsibility, burden-sharing, and collective defense of their home, unity remains merely a slogan. He expressed hope that Israelis would learn from history, bridge divides, and collaboratively build a better future for the State of Israel.

The article also briefly mentions Judge David Mintz, who commented on the importance of the day, though his specific remarks are not detailed beyond his statement that "I don't usually say this, but there is no choice."