Rabbi Embraces Reservist Who Lost Brother in October 7 Attack on Heated 'Black Kippot' Debate

A tense exchange unfolded on the Israeli TV program "Black Kippot" between Rabbi Guy Elalouf and Shlomi Damari, a reservist from the 'Reservists' party who lost his brother in the October 7 attacks. The debate centered on the contentious issue of military conscription and the proposal to revoke voting rights from those who do not serve in the IDF. Rabbi Elalouf harshly criticized Damari, calling him a "parasite" and urging him to join Torah study instead.

As the program neared its end, host Yossi Sergovsky intervened to calm tensions and asked Rabbi Elalouf to say something positive about Damari. The rabbi agreed and emotionally stated, "Shlomi is my brother, I would have been willing to die for him." This heartfelt moment brought the discussion to a close on a note of mutual respect and unity.

"Black Kippot," hosted by Sergovsky, is a flagship program on the Kikar HaShabbat website, often featuring heated debates on social and political issues affecting the ultra-Orthodox community and Israeli society at large. This episode sparked significant online discussion due to its raw emotional content and the clash over military service and civic rights.