Kalman Libeskind Sparks Outrage Over Voting Rights for Israelis Abroad

Israeli journalist Kalman Libeskind ignited controversy with his weekly column in "Makor Rishon," where he criticized efforts to allow Israeli citizens living abroad to vote in national elections. Libeskind called the initiative an "immoral enterprise," arguing that those who do not live in Israel should not decide how life is governed there. He emphasized that individuals who do not bear the daily burdens or consequences of living in Israel should not influence election outcomes, stating, "Whoever does not live here should not decide how we live here." He also compared the situation to someone not living in a household deciding chores, underscoring his view that absentee voters lack legitimacy.

His remarks provoked sharp backlash from the political left and other public figures. Knesset member Gilad Kariv accused Libeskind of hypocrisy, dismissing his moralizing as lacking integrity. Il Nave, co-founder of "Brothers in Arms," highlighted the critical support from Israelis and Jews abroad during recent conflicts, including supplying protective gear when local resources were depleted. Nave also questioned Libeskind's stance by recalling mass voting by ultra-Orthodox Israelis from Brooklyn.

Within the Likud party, concerns were raised about the criticism of overseas voters. MK Naama Lazimi pointed out the contradiction in accepting overseas Israelis returning to serve in the military but opposing their right to vote. MK Vladimir Beliak noted that tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox voters have been flown in from the U.S. for elections without Libeskind’s objections, questioning what had changed now. Entrepreneur Eran Efrat responded even more forcefully, stating, "We have no choice but to save you from yourselves. You are too foolish to manage alone, and Israel matters to us."

The debate highlights ongoing tensions over the political influence of Israelis living abroad and their role in shaping Israel’s future through voting rights.