Israeli Minister Ze'ev Elkin Reveals What Stopped His Professional Chess Career

In a segment of the "Chess for Elections" project by HaOlam HaBoker, journalist Paz Robinson met with Israeli Minister Ze'ev Elkin in a public park where they played chess alongside Elkin's mentor and friend, Avshalom. During the meeting, Elkin shared memories from his youth, including learning Hebrew clandestinely in the Soviet Union at age 15, which involved smuggling Hebrew booklets and attending secret seminars under dangerous conditions. The close bond formed with his mentor Avshalom has lasted to this day.

Elkin recounted his early achievements in chess, noting that by age 11 he was a candidate for the master level. However, a health scare involving a pre-ulcer condition forced doctors and his parents to prohibit him from continuing competitive chess due to the intense stress the game caused. "It's a game with a lot of nerves," Elkin explained.

When asked about the political landscape, Elkin expressed respect for Benny Gantz, a politician from the opposing camp. He also revealed his longstanding political aspiration to become Israel's Minister of Education, emphasizing his belief that human resources are Israel's most valuable asset, surpassing natural resources like gas.