Haaretz Journalist Defends Hasidic Singer Moti Steinmetz Amid Online Backlash

Ran Shemoni, a journalist for Haaretz, publicly defended Hasidic singer Moti Steinmetz following reports that Steinmetz would perform at the wedding of Israeli singer Omer Adam and Sasha, where he requested gender-segregated seating. After the announcement, Steinmetz faced significant criticism online, with hundreds accusing him of imposing his religious beliefs and excluding women from public spaces.

Shemoni recounted his personal experience attending a wedding where Steinmetz performed, describing it as the most beautiful live singing he had ever heard. He noted that despite other prominent singers performing, Steinmetz's rendition of "Yehe Asuf" captivated the entire audience into silence, moving even the bride's father to tears. After the performance, Steinmetz appeared anxious and uncertain about the reception, despite positive feedback from attendees.

Shemoni emphasized that behind the acclaimed singer is a young man grappling with questions and doubts, striving to remain true to his upbringing while navigating different environments. He criticized the tendency to turn every issue into a battle over the country's identity, urging recognition of the complex realities, private lives, and compromises that sustain Israeli society.