Israel Prize Laureate Ohad Naharin Declares Loyalty to Israel

Renowned dancer and choreographer Ohad Naharin, a recipient of the Israel Prize in 2005 and the EMET Prize in 2009, stated unequivocally that he has no intention of leaving Israel, despite the country's complex security situation. Speaking on journalist Guy Peleg's podcast, Naharin emphasized his commitment to creating and working in Israel, asserting, "There is no other place today where I want to create and work in the world besides Israel, nor to live, even in light of what is happening right now."

Naharin acknowledged that external circumstances, rather than personal desire, could force him to leave. "What might force me to leave is not some desire, but a lack of choice, and I am not in a situation of lack of choice. On the contrary, I want to stay and do not want to leave," he explained. He also addressed the notion that those with a "leftist" worldview or concerns for "civil rights" are unpatriotic, clarifying that his deep connection to Israel transcends such definitions.

Peleg challenged Naharin, suggesting that his global standing in the dance world might present unique opportunities abroad, even questioning his ability to lead a dance company in New York given potential difficulties in attracting international talent to Israel. Naharin responded firmly, "Look, it's clear that I can. Where is my heart? It is here."