Former MK Esterina Tartman Dies at 68 After Public Service Career

Former Knesset Member Esterina Tartman passed away at the age of 68. Tartman, who served in the Israeli parliament, had a history of health challenges and a significant accident.

She was diagnosed with cancer in the mid-1990s but recovered. In 1997, she was severely injured in a car accident, which left her with a disability. Tartman entered politics in 1999, running for the 15th Knesset with the Yisrael Beiteinu party. She later entered the Knesset during the 16th term as part of a joint list with the National Union, succeeding Michael Nudelman. For the 17th Knesset, she was elected fifth on the Yisrael Beiteinu list.

During her tenure, Tartman held several key positions, including chairwoman of her party's faction, a member of the Knesset House Committee and the Committee for State Control, and served as acting chairwoman of the latter committee. She was also a member of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, eulogized Tartman, stating, "I received with great sorrow the news of the untimely death of former MK Esterina Tartman, may she rest in peace. Esterina dedicated many years to public service and to the State of Israel, acting with devotion and determination. My sincere condolences to her family and all her loved ones in this difficult time. May her memory be blessed."

Her friend, Rachli Horowitz, also shared a heartfelt tribute, saying, "This morning our Esterina passed away. Our very close, beloved, and dear friend. In recent weeks, we painfully watched her fade, we hoped, worried, and grieved with her and her family, and this morning we are left with the difficult news and immense sadness. We embrace the Tartman family with tears. Esterina was a part of our lives and will remain so in memories, shared moments, love, and longing."