Smotrich: Elections Crucial for Israel's Future Identity
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Religious Zionism party chairman Bezalel Smotrich declared the upcoming elections pivotal for Israel's future identity and settlement, referencing the Gush Katif disengagement. He spoke at a Hesder Yeshiva deans' conference in Jerusalem, urging leaders to grasp the significance of the moment. Smotrich also lauded the Hesder Yeshivas' role in fostering religious Zionist values and military service. Jewish National Fund chairman Eyal Ostrovsky was also present and honored for his organization's support of the yeshivas.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Bezalel Smotrich stated upcoming elections are crucial for Israel's identity and settlement future.
- He referenced the Gush Katif disengagement as a lesson in the ease of destroying settlements.
- Smotrich urged public figures to "understand the gravity of the hour" regarding election decisions.
- He praised Hesder Yeshivas for combining religious study with military service.
- Smotrich and JNF chairman Eyal Ostrovsky were honored for their support of Hesder Yeshivas.
Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party, stated on Sunday that the upcoming elections are critical for determining the character and future of Israel, particularly concerning settlement in the land and the nation's ability to defend its interests. Speaking at a conference of Hesder Yeshiva deans in Jerusalem, Smotrich urged public figures to "understand the gravity of the hour."
He drew a parallel to the 2005 disengagement from Gush Katif, recalling how easily decades of settlement work could be destroyed in a single day. Smotrich emphasized that the elections transcend typical political disputes over budgets or ministerial appointments, framing them instead as a decision that will shape the nation's identity and future.
Smotrich also acknowledged the contribution of Hesder Yeshivas, which combine religious study with military service, to the Religious Zionist community. He praised the deans for leading this unique educational model, highlighting the bravery of students who emerge from deep connection to their studies and values.
Eyal Ostrovsky, chairman of the Jewish National Fund (JNF), also attended the conference. Both Smotrich and Ostrovsky were honored by the Hesder Yeshiva Union for their support of the Hesder Yeshivas and the Religious Zionist movement, specifically noting the JNF's ongoing assistance in building and renovating numerous yeshivas across Israel. They were presented with a mezuzah case made from basalt collected in the Golan Heights.
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