Israeli Minister Sparks Outrage by Urging Citizens Abroad Not to Vote in Elections

Israeli Minister Shlomo Karhi from the Likud party ignited controversy on Wednesday by stating that Israelis living abroad should not vote in Israeli elections. Speaking on Radio 103, Karhi argued that only those residing in Israel should influence the country's future, inviting those living abroad to make aliyah (immigrate to Israel) if they want to participate politically. He accused the political left of trying to mobilize large numbers of overseas voters to unseat Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Karhi's remarks provoked strong backlash from Israelis living abroad. Lilach Shani, who lives in New York with her family, called his position "absurd," emphasizing that Israeli identity remains strong regardless of residence and affirming her intention to return to vote. Similarly, Anat Ron Kendel, an Israeli resident of Oxford whose father was killed in the Hamas attack on October 7, condemned Karhi’s comments as disrespectful to those who sacrificed for Israel. She stressed that Israel is a refuge for Jews worldwide and that citizens abroad have a responsibility to influence the country’s future.

Other Israelis abroad, like Karen Tz from Portugal, expressed anger at Israel’s refusal to allow overseas voting at consulates, contrasting it with other democracies. She blamed the current government for driving citizens away, saying, "If the government were sane and humane, we would live in Israel." The debate highlights tensions over voting rights for the Israeli diaspora amid ongoing political and security challenges.

The controversy comes as Israel prepares for upcoming elections, with questions about diaspora voting rights gaining prominence. Karhi’s comments have intensified calls from expatriates for expanded voting access and recognition of their ongoing connection to Israel despite living abroad.