Rav Dov Lando Makes Historic First Visit to Belz Rebbe in Jerusalem
In a historic first, Rabbi Dov Lando, head of a prominent yeshiva, visited the Belz Rebbe at his residence in Jerusalem. The meeting, unprecedented as neither had previously visited the other, took place in a warm and respectful atmosphere with only a few close associates present, including Knesset member Israel Eichler and Rabbi Elyakim Stark, chairman of the 'Machazikei Hadas' faction and a key figure in the Belz court.
During the encounter, the two rabbis reminisced about the leadership of past great Torah figures. The Belz Rebbe inquired whether Rabbi Lando had studied alongside the late Hazon Ish, to which Rabbi Lando responded by recalling his experiences under the spiritual guidance of the late Maharah of Belz during his time in Bnei Brak. He described the massive gatherings of thousands of Hasidim who came to witness the Rebbe’s holy presence.
The conversation took a solemn turn as both leaders expressed deep concern over the difficult situation in the Land of Israel and the challenges facing the Torah world. Rabbi Lando stated, "All that remains for us is that the Rebbe and I together will offer a heartfelt sigh before the Creator, praying for mercy on the poor and needy people." The meeting concluded with mutual blessings and a sense of unity amid trying times.