Hawzah News Agency- Feldman described the ongoing occupation and violence against Palestinians as not only a violation of international law but also a betrayal of Jewish religious principles.
In an exclusive interview with Arabi 21, Rabbi Feldman outlined the fundamental distinction between Judaism as a faith and Zionism as a political ideology. He criticized Israel’s portrayal of itself as “the state that represents all Jews,” saying that the government’s actions in Palestine have no religious legitimacy and put Jews worldwide at risk.
Judaism vs. Zionism
“Judaism is a religion founded on faith in God Almighty and adherence to His commandments. It has nothing to do with nationalism, politics, or the crimes committed by the state of Israel,” Feldman said. “Zionism, on the other hand, is a political movement created by individuals who exploit religion to justify acts that are forbidden in Judaism itself. Murder, robbery, and oppression of an entire people cannot be reconciled with our faith.”
He emphasized that the widespread conflation of Judaism and Zionism has caused serious harm to Jews globally. “The crimes committed in Palestine are falsely carried out in the name of the Jewish people. This not only threatens Palestinians but also exposes Jews worldwide to hatred, violence, and danger,” he said.
Call to Jewish Youth in Israel
Rabbi Feldman addressed young Jews living under Israeli rule, highlighting the moral and spiritual dangers of participation in the Israeli military and the occupation of Palestinian lands. “Young people who refuse to serve in the Israeli army are resisting crimes committed in the name of God. They will not participate in oppression, but under current laws, they are considered criminals simply for refusing military service,” he explained.
Feldman recounted the story of a friend who fled Israel to avoid complicit involvement in state crimes, noting the challenges faced by families who wish to leave. “Even those who escape often cannot take their children with them, as the Israeli authorities threaten arrest at the airport,” he said.
The Situation in Gaza and the Roots of the Conflict
Describing the ongoing confrontation in Gaza, Feldman argued that the crisis did not begin recently. “The conflict is an extension of the Zionist project that began over a century ago. The occupation has created an endless cycle of violence and injustice that cannot be resolved without addressing the root cause—the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands.”
On the Two-State Solution
While the two-state solution has been widely debated internationally, Feldman rejected any proposal that leaves part of the land under Zionist control. “Returning some land to Palestinians is only a partial solution. Justice requires the complete end of the Zionist occupation and the restoration of full rights to all displaced Palestinians. Only then can true peace and security be achieved,” he said.
He further argued that a Palestinian-led state, whether Islamic or secular, would offer better protection for Jews than the current Israeli state. “History shows that Jews have lived safely under Palestinian and Muslim rule in the region. Such a system respects Judaism and human rights more than today’s Zionist regime.”
Criticism of International Support for Israel
Rabbi Feldman also criticized Arab normalization agreements with Israel and U.S. political and military support for Tel Aviv. “Blind allegiance to Israel ignores justice and human dignity. Policymakers must look beyond propaganda and reconsider their relations with Israel, defending human rights and international law rather than political interests,” he said.
Education and Awareness as a Strategy Against Zionism
Neturei Karta, the organization Feldman represents, positions itself as a religious voice opposed to Zionism. “Our mission is to educate and raise awareness. People lack fundamental information about the difference between Judaism and Zionism. Being righteous and opposing oppression is not anti-Semitic,” he explained. “We aim to help people understand the truth and reject the propaganda that equates the Jewish religion with the actions of the Israeli state.”
A Final Warning
In conclusion, Rabbi Feldman urged Jews in Israel to reconsider their position under the current regime. “It is time to wake up and see the reality. Zionism has promised security and protection, but these promises are false. The crimes and oppression ongoing in Israel put everyone in danger—including Jews themselves. Leaving the country is not just a matter of safety; it is a matter of faith and conscience.”
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