Israeli Haredi Leaders Debate Rising Violence and Social Divides Amid Nine Days Observance

During the Nine Days period commemorating the destruction of the Temple, Israeli broadcasters Moshe Mens and Shuki Solomon hosted a candid discussion on growing societal issues within the Haredi community and broader Israeli society. Solomon, known for promoting the slogan "Ahavat Chinam" (baseless love), expressed frustration with mere slogans, urging instead for an end to violence: "I'm no longer preaching love but saying, 'Guys, don't hit each other!'"

The conversation addressed escalating racism and hatred toward those perceived as different, including ethnic minorities such as Ethiopian Israelis and Arabs. Solomon condemned these attitudes as outright racism, stating, "In 20 years, we will be ashamed of how police treated Ethiopians, just as we are ashamed of past discrimination against Mizrahi Jews." Mens acknowledged the complexity of societal suspicions rooted in security concerns but agreed with Solomon's critique.

The discussion then turned inward to the Haredi community's internal struggles with youth violence. Solomon described incidents of youths throwing stones at elderly people, bus drivers, and even rabbis, calling it a moral and social bankruptcy. Mens highlighted the dangerous trend of violence justified by religious ideology, noting that when conflicts are framed as "for the sake of heaven," dialogue becomes impossible. Solomon lamented, "If they think violence is religiously sanctioned, I despair. Where does the Torah permit hitting a fellow Jew?"

Another contentious topic was the Friday night "cholent culture" among young Haredi men, involving expensive, unhealthy food and mixed-gender socializing. Mens criticized it as a spiritual and health hazard, while Solomon defended it as a necessary emotional release for stressed yeshiva students.

Mens also shared his personal experience of being drafted into the IDF as a senior medic on October 7, reflecting on his pride and the sacrifices made. The program concluded with Solomon introducing "Pray," a new app facilitating virtual communal prayers for the sick, integrating halachic guidelines for organizing minyanim online.

Summary: During the Nine Days, Israeli Haredi figures Moshe Mens and Shuki Solomon openly discussed rising racism, youth violence, and social tensions within their community, highlighting the need for change and introducing a new prayer app to foster unity.