Lapid Accuses Knesset Speaker Ohana of Short Notice Invitation to Torah Study Event

Opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed anger after receiving a last-minute invitation to a Torah study event hosted by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana on the evening of Hoshana Rabbah. Lapid claimed the invitation was intentionally sent with very short notice, suggesting it was a ploy to prevent his attendance.

Lapid stated that Ohana sent him a WhatsApp message at 1:42 PM with an invitation to the event, scheduled for that same evening. He presented two possibilities: either the organizers were unaware of Hoshana Rabbah and were surprised by the date, or they deliberately sent the invitation late to engineer his absence. Due to the insufficient notice, Lapid stated he would be unable to attend.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana responded to Lapid's accusations, expressing regret for Lapid's perception. Ohana explained that the event was approved on the day it was to take place, and invitations were sent immediately after receiving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval. He asserted that numerous individuals, including Knesset members and staff, received the notification during the day and adjusted their plans accordingly.

Ohana also thanked Knesset members and staff for their mobilization during the holiday. Despite what he termed 'stinging remarks' and attributed 'malicious intent,' Ohana extended holiday wishes to Lapid and his family. The event, a Torah study session in the Knesset's sukkah, was to be attended by senior security officials.