Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Minister Condemned for Dancing to Anti-Zionist Song
Israeli Housing Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf sparked political outrage after a video emerged of him dancing and singing to an anti-Zionist, anti-enlistment song at his nephew’s wedding on Sunday evening. The song, popular within the ultra-Orthodox community, condemns the Israeli government and urges ultra-Orthodox Jews not to enlist in the military, a stance that has caused tension between secular and religious factions in Israel. Goldknopf, leader of the ultra-Orthodox United Torah Judaism party, was seen dancing with a group of wedding guests while singing lyrics such as “We don’t believe in the government of infidels” and “We will die and not enlist.”
The video led to widespread calls for Goldknopf’s resignation from both coalition and opposition politicians. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called for his immediate dismissal, criticizing his actions as harmful to Israel’s unity. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also condemned Goldknopf’s behavior, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take swift action.
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In response, Goldknopf issued a public apology, emphasizing that he did not agree with the song’s message and regretted participating in the dance. He later stated, “I was obligated to shut down the band immediately,” and assured that he would act more carefully in the future.
Netanyahu defended his ally, stating that Goldknopf had disavowed the song and expressed regret. He called on Israelis to stand united in the face of external enemies.
Goldknopf’s actions and statements have fueled the ongoing debate over the military service exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews, a contentious issue in Israeli politics.
