Leiter defends Jewish unity, warning hateful rhetoric harms Israel’s dignity and global Jewish relations.
Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter issued a sharp public rebuke on Thursday after Minister May Golan made disparaging remarks against Reform Judaism during a heated Knesset exchange.
The incident began after MK Gilad Kariv, a Reform rabbi, questioned reports that Golan had appointed convicted criminal Rafi Kedoshim as an adviser in her ministry. Golan responded with an offensive attack, accusing Kariv of belonging to “crazy temples” and making insulting remarks about Reform Jewish practices.
Leiter, who described himself as an Orthodox Jew and Israel’s representative in Washington, strongly condemned the comments. He called Golan’s words disgusting and reprehensible, saying they deserved clear rebuke.
The ambassador stressed that theological, political and ideological disagreements are legitimate and even necessary in a healthy society. However, he warned that there is a line between debate and hatred, and said Golan had crossed it.
Leiter said too many public figures are now crossing that line, turning legitimate disagreement into destructive populism. He added that he plans to meet Reform movement leaders in person and apologize on behalf of Israel.
The controversy highlights growing concern that internal Jewish divisions can damage Israel’s image, weaken relations with Diaspora communities and distract from the country’s larger national challenges.
