Zehut Chairman Moshe Feiglin Vows to Block Shabbat Public Transport Ban

Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party and number two on the Religious Zionism Knesset list, announced Sunday that he would block any legislative proposal that broadly prohibits public transportation on Shabbat. Speaking at the "Olam Katan" conference, Feiglin stated that the operation of public transport in local authorities should be examined as part of a wider discussion on religion and state relations.

Feiglin clarified that he does not support an immediate change to the current situation without first providing a suitable solution for the public. He described his stance as one that combines a reduction in coercion and government mechanisms with a strengthening of Jewish identity. "We want Torah study for as many as possible, we want Jewish identity for as many as possible," he said.

He proposed granting citizens greater freedom in choosing how their funds are directed, including support for Torah institutions. Feiglin expressed confidence that the public would choose to strengthen the world of Torah and Jewish identity, stating, "We trust the people of Israel."

Feiglin also addressed his identity and relationship with the religious-national public, declaring, "I am a Jew. I am not just any Jew. As Ben-Gurion said about himself, I am a messianic."

He asserted his loyalty to Halakha and Torah, and his connection to the teachings of the Land of Israel and the vision of Rabbi Kook.