Rabbi Lando Sparks Political Firestorm with Accusations Against National-Religious Community

Rabbi Dov Lando ignited a political controversy with his harsh criticism of the national-religious community, accusing them of inciting murder. In a video released on July 19, 2026, Lando targeted the "kippot serugot" (knitted kippah wearers), blaming them for pushing military conscription on the ultra-Orthodox and accusing them of causing wars "not just for salvation but for national honor," which he equated with incitement to murder. Present during the remarks, Rabbi Finkel described the situation as "fear," to which Lando responded affirmatively, questioning if such fear justified the actions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly rejected Lando's statements on July 20, emphasizing the sacrifices of IDF soldiers from all religious backgrounds who risk their lives to defend Israel. Netanyahu called for full support and respect for the soldiers, including from the Torah world. In contrast, Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, condemned Lando's remarks as "horrific" and criticized the government for being influenced by ultra-Orthodox parties.

In response to Netanyahu's condemnation, the Degel HaTorah party, led by Moshe Gafni, defended Rabbi Lando, describing his words as the "holy of holies of the people of Israel." They warned Netanyahu against misinterpreting or attacking the Torah world, urging caution in his rhetoric.

This is not Lando's first controversial political intervention. About two months earlier, he called for the dissolution of the Knesset due to a lack of trust in Netanyahu, stating in a letter to Degel HaTorah MKs that they no longer felt connected to the prime minister and advocated for early elections amid the ongoing debate over the ultra-Orthodox military exemption law.

The current dispute highlights the deep divisions within Israeli society over the military draft of ultra-Orthodox Jews and the broader tensions between secular-national and ultra-Orthodox communities.