Former MK Moti Yogev Returns to Politics to Unite Religious Zionism After Personal Loss
Moti Yogev, a retired colonel and former member of the Knesset, spoke in an interview with Hadar Miller about his personal pain following the death of his son, the lessons learned from the Gaza disengagement, and his vision for the future of Religious Zionism in Israel. Yogev described how after years of military and public service, including work with immigration absorption and the Menashe communities, he felt compelled to reenter politics due to a sense that the Jewish-national public lacked clear political leadership. "I felt we were leaving the cockpit empty," he said, emphasizing the need to fix many issues facing the country.
Yogev stressed that his goal is not to create another sectoral party but to build a broad framework uniting those committed to Israel's Jewish and Zionist identity, including people beyond just those who wear kippot. He recounted his military career starting shortly after the Yom Kippur War, his command roles in the West Bank, and the inseparable link he sees between security and settlement.
A deeply personal part of the interview focused on the loss of his son Harel, who died during his military service. Yogev shared how his family copes with the tragedy by continuing Harel's legacy through acts of kindness and public service, saying, "You cannot fill the void, but you can continue the light he left behind."
Yogev also reflected on the trauma of the Gaza disengagement, describing it as one of the most difficult periods in his public life. He highlighted the importance of conducting even the toughest debates with national responsibility and unity. Criticizing recent Religious Zionist politics, he noted that parties have sometimes become centered on individuals or small groups rather than representing a broad constituency.
Asked why he chose to return now, Yogev pointed to the post-Operation Iron Swords era as a critical moment requiring leadership with a long-term vision. "I am not returning for a position," he said. "I am returning because we cannot stand aside." He concluded with a message of hope, confident that despite personal and national hardships, Religious Zionism can lead significant initiatives in Israel again. "The people of Israel have overcome greater crises," he said. "With faith, responsibility, and willingness to act together, rebuilding is possible."
