Israel Beytenu Condemns Mordechai Ben David's Call for Violence Against Avigdor Lieberman
Israel Beytenu strongly condemned remarks made by Hasidic singer Mordechai Ben David during a Yiddish podcast interview with journalist Shlomi Zyanitz. Ben David responded to claims that the late Rabbi of Rivanitz was Avigdor Lieberman's mohel by saying "they should have cut off his head instead," adding he hopes Lieberman will repent. The party called the statement a "moral disgrace and incitement to murder," emphasizing that "decency precedes Torah." Israel Beytenu reaffirmed their confidence in winning the upcoming elections and vowed to restore order in the country.
The controversy erupted after Ben David's interview was published last Thursday, where he discussed Lieberman's relationship with the religious community and the mohel claim. Despite the podcast host's laughter and acknowledgment of Lieberman's respect for the rabbinic figure, Ben David insisted on his harsh criticism, noting photos of Lieberman visiting the rabbi's gravesite and expressing hope for his repentance.
Israel Beytenu's response highlighted the party's rejection of using the revered rabbi's name to spread hatred and violence against their leader. The incident adds tension ahead of the 2026 elections, with Israel Beytenu positioning itself firmly against such inflammatory rhetoric.
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