Several synagogues in Petah Tikva reportedly declined visits by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich amid objections to political activity during prayer services, while others agreed to host him.
The Jerusalem Post reported on October 17 that the dispute emerged Friday, October 16, in the city’s Kfar Ganim neighborhood ahead of Shabbat. Residents and congregants described disagreements over whether an appearance during an election campaign belonged in a religious setting.
Organizers told Maariv that approximately 10 synagogues had invited Smotrich. They acknowledged that others wanted politics kept out of services and would therefore be excluded from the itinerary.
At one synagogue, an announced invitation divided worshippers. Opponents questioned whether the appearance would serve a religious purpose or promote political interests.
Other congregants argued that canceling an invitation already extended and publicized would be inappropriate, particularly because the synagogue had hosted other speakers. They also expressed concern about publicly embarrassing the minister.
A proposed compromise would move the address to the synagogue hall outside prayer times, allowing interested people to attend separately.
The report described the disagreement as unresolved ahead of Shabbat; it did not establish the outcome of every planned appearance.
References
jpost/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-911959
