Defense Minister Israel Katz Meets with Chabad Delegation

Defense Minister Israel Katz held a special meeting with a delegation from the Chabad Hasidic Association at the Ministry of Defense in Tel Aviv on Thursday. The meeting, held ahead of the Sukkot holiday and coinciding with the yahrzeit of Rabbi Maharash, focused on the new book 'Oseh Shalom' (Makes Peace), which presents the Rebbe's political and security perspectives on foreign affairs and defense.

During the extensive discussion, participants reviewed the book, quoted from the Rebbe's talks, and debated Israel's current security challenges and spatial concepts in light of the Rebbe's teachings. The delegation included Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak HaCohen Aronoff, Chairman of the Chabad Hasidic Association; Rabbi Ariel Lemberger, Secretary-General; Rabbi Yehiel Gluchovsky; Rabbi Elisha Perl, who compiled the book; Rabbi Itai Boymgarten; and Rabbi Menachem Mendel Ofen. The participants also played the Hasidic melody 'Lechatchila Ariber' (From the Start, Go Over).

Katz presented Israel's new security doctrine to the delegation, using maps in his office to illustrate discussions on spatial concepts and the principles underlying Israeli policy, drawing comparisons to the Rebbe's statements. Rabbi Aronoff emphasized the importance of decision-makers adhering to the Rebbe's principles on security and state leadership, highlighting the government's responsibility in security matters.

The delegation stressed the historical role of prophets in guiding the Jewish people, noting that leaders in biblical times consulted prophets. They urged current leaders to deeply understand the Rebbe's teachings, particularly concerning national security. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the connection between the Rebbe's philosophy and contemporary security and leadership challenges.