Inside the Controversy: Ultra-Orthodox Leader Rabbi Dov Lando Sparks Outrage Over Anti-Zionist Remarks

Rabbi Dov Lando, spiritual leader of Israel's Degel HaTorah party, has sparked severe controversy across Israel following the emergence of comments denigrating Zionism. In a recently released video recording, the 96-year-old rabbi asserted that the ideology of Zionism brought disasters upon the Jewish people and suggested that Jewish Israelis might have been better off without a state.

These remarks have triggered sharp rebukes from Israeli politicians as the country approaches landmark legislative elections. The role of the growing ultra-Orthodox community—particularly concerning military service—remains a central issue, and the political alignment of ultra-Orthodox parties could prove decisive in forming the next government.

Who is Dov Lando?

Dov Lando is a 96-year-old rabbi recognized as the leader of Israel’s Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox community. Born in Poland and raised in the Lithuanian-style ultra-Orthodox tradition, Lando leads a yeshiva in the Israeli city of Bnei Brak. He serves as a member of Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, a council of senior ultra-Orthodox rabbis offering religious guidance, and acts as the spiritual leader of Israel’s Degel HaTorah party. The party belongs to the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) alliance, which forms part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition.

What Has Lando Said About Zionism?

Israeli media recently published a video capturing Lando making critical comments regarding Zionism, military service, and secular Israelis. In the footage, Lando states that Zionism caused Arabs to hate the Jewish people and brought physical and spiritual disasters upon them. He remarked that living peacefully with Arabs without a state under international or Palestinian rule would have been the optimal situation for Jews.

Lando also criticized soldiers adhering to Religious Zionism, stating they are killed because their rabbis teach them a distorted Torah, and claimed many military operations serve the honor of the state rather than saving lives. Additionally, he criticized secular Israelis for having no connection to Judaism, describing them as having built a state of apostasy and heresy.

What Has Been the Reaction in Israel?

The remarks drew fierce criticism from numerous Israeli politicians, including opposition figures challenging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Gadi Eisenkot, head of the Yashar party, called the statements the embodiment of anti-Zionism. Yair Lapid, head of Israel’s opposition in the Knesset, termed the comments a disgrace to every Jew, while former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described them as anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not commented on the latest remarks, though he previously condemned statements by the rabbi in July regarding the drafting of religious seminary students.

Could the Controversy Impact Israel’s Upcoming Elections?

Members of the anti-Netanyahu opposition bloc have urged that the UTJ be excluded from any future government and criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for maintaining his alliance with the group. Yair Golan, head of the Democrats party, accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over Zionism. However, breaking with the UTJ would carry significant political costs for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as his coalition faces a challenging election battle.