From the early days of the State of Israel and even pre- State- the religious zionist community has been at the forefront of shaping the Jewish identity of the country. Much of this work was done through religious zionist parties in the knesset, going all the way back to the formation of the State when Mizrachi and Hapoel haMizrachi sat in the government, continuing through 1956 when the two parties merged to form Mafdal, the National Religious party. Throughout that time, a religious zionist party has been a partner in coalition governments for most of Israels history, placing them as an important character in the history of the State.
This work continues today. The recent election of a religious Zionist, shomer shabbat Prime Minister, Naftali Bennet, is a proud milestone in this story. But the story is far from over. The Religious Zionist community continues to play a leading role in shaping the future identity of the State of Israel. Which brings us to today's conversation with Gilad Katz and a discussion of what this next stage may look like.
Gilad Katz, a tzanchan paratrooper while in the IDF, spent time as an advisor and speechwriter for Bibi Netanyahu. During his tenure in the Office of the Prime Minister, he held prestigious titles as Head of the Hebrew Correspondence Department and the Public Affairs Department.He most recently served as the consul general of Israel to the southwest, based in Houston and responsible for all of its neighboring States. He has a background in policy, communications and education. His current project is what brings him to our podcast.
Brought to you by the Religious Zionists of America-Mizrachi.