Storm over Smotrich's visit to Petah Tikva: Many synagogues refused to host him

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's planned visit this Saturday to the Kfar Ganim neighborhood in Petah Tikva is sparking controversy. Many synagogues refused to host him, and at the synagogue where he is expected to appear, a heated debate erupted among worshippers over bringing politics into the synagogue in the midst of an election campaign.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's planned visit this Saturday to the Kfar Ganim neighborhood in Petah Tikva is causing a storm. According to claims raised in the neighborhood, many synagogues refused to allow him to speak, including 'Israel HaTzair', 'Heichal Gabriel', 'Ohel Yitzchak', and 'Nigunei Chaim'. According to sources familiar with the details, attempts were made to coordinate the visit but were met with refusal. Due to the objections, Smotrich was left with the option of speaking in a garden in the afternoon hours. The debate intensified over the decision to allow Smotrich to speak at the synagogue where he was hosted, with some worshippers arguing that there is no place for political activity during prayers in the midst of an election campaign. On the other hand, voices were heard opposing the cancellation of his appearance after he was invited, claiming it could be seen as a personal insult and public shaming. A proposal was also raised to separate political activity from prayer and hold the meeting in the synagogue hall outside the prayer framework.