Ezra Youth Movement Convenes 20th Conference to Shape Israel’s Future Leadership
The Ezra youth movement held its 20th national conference on Wednesday, gathering 360 delegates from across Israel to discuss the movement’s future and national challenges. This quinquennial event is the movement’s main forum, where representatives from all branches and districts convene for two days of deliberations and decision-making. The opening session featured a focused dialogue led by former secretary-general Shaul De Malach and the movement’s rabbi, Uri Sharky, who outlined the expected societal challenges Israel will face over the next 15 years and emphasized the responsibility of the younger generation.
Rabbi Tamir Granot, who lost his son Amati in the recent Iron Swords war, addressed the delegates on the themes of "partnership" and "mutual responsibility." He shared his personal and national grief, highlighting the Jewish value of mutual commitment beyond mere tolerance. Granot explained that true mutual responsibility means being willing to suffer for one another, creating a united society rather than isolated individuals.
A poignant moment occurred during a dialogue between Menachem Kalmanzon, who lost his brother Elhanan and nephew Fadiya Mark in the October 7 conflict, and Udi Goren, cousin of the late Tal Haimi and a leader in the Hostages Families Headquarters. Their conversation, part of a podcast addressing complex societal divisions, recounted their transformation from ordinary citizens to active advocates. Kalmanzon declared, "We are the people we have been waiting for," urging the youth delegates that "you are the people we are waiting for."
Kalmanzon and Goren also criticized media coverage for focusing on conflicts between families of fallen soldiers and hostages during the fighting, while ignoring the genuine reconciliations and cooperation behind the scenes. They described their initial meeting in the Knesset corridors and their efforts to unify voices before addressing lawmakers, emphasizing dialogue to find common ground rather than division.
The conference continues with further discussions aimed at shaping the youth movement’s role in Israel’s social and national future.
