Top Rabbi Dov Landau Denounces Zionism, Calls It Disastrous for Jewish People

Rabbi Dov Landau, a prominent leader of the Haredi-Lithuanian community and head of the Slabodka Yeshiva, has sharply criticized Zionism, Religious Zionism, and secular Israeli society in a leaked recording of a private conversation. The discussion, which reportedly took place at his home in Bnei Brak about 18 months ago, was revealed by Channel 12 News. Rabbi Landau asserted that Torah study protects the inhabitants of the land and criticized Religious Zionist rabbis for their "twisted Torah" that leads to the deaths of their followers in the IDF. He suggested some military actions are for the state's honor rather than saving lives.

Landau further questioned the establishment of Israel, proposing that a Jewish state was unnecessary and that Arab or international rule might have been preferable. He claimed Zionism exacerbated anti-Jewish sentiment in the Arab world, stating, "It would have been good if Arabs ruled here, that would have been the best situation." He attributed both spiritual and "physical disasters" to Zionism.

Addressing secular Israelis, Landau stated they are more disconnected from Judaism than in the past. Despite his ideological opposition to Zionism and current Israeli sovereignty, he acknowledged that the state and the IDF provide protection to the Haredi public.

His remarks drew strong condemnation from several Israeli political leaders. Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, called Landau's statements "slander" and "anti-Zionism incarnate," urging Zionist parties not to join a government with parties holding such views. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett labeled Landau's statements "shameful," "antisemitic," "anti-Zionist," and "against the IDF," linking them to the upcoming elections and the issue of Haredi conscription. Opposition leader Yair Lapid stated that anyone who disrespects fallen soldiers from Religious Zionism cannot be part of any Israeli government. Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity party, called the remarks a "moral and educational disgrace" and advocated for a broad Zionist government independent of parties influenced by Landau. Avigdor Lieberman also criticized the Haredi parties for accepting state funding without contributing to national service and defense, accusing them of benefiting from the state while opposing its existence.