At the 13th Conference of the Bar Association held this morning (Tuesday), President Isaac Herzog delivered a speech on the current state of Israel. “We are meeting at one of the most difficult, painful, and fateful hours for the State of Israel,” Herzog began, highlighting the challenges and pain the country is experiencing due to the severe security situation.
Herzog specifically addressed the tragic loss of the six hostages who were taken from Gaza, saying, “The heart of an entire nation shattered into pieces a few days ago.” He shared that yesterday, in a moment filled with grief and sorrow, he eulogized Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was laid to rest, and apologized on behalf of the State of Israel: “Sorry that we failed to protect him and his friends during the terrible disaster of October 7. Sorry that we failed to bring them home safely.”
Regarding the internal disagreements within Israeli society, Herzog said, “It is hard to overstate the heavy public responsibility that lies on those dealing with the most sensitive core issues of the nation.” He called on the public to rise above and avoid unnecessary bickering, emphasizing the need to talk and listen, “Step out of the echo chambers. Step out of the entrenched position that believes it holds the absolute truth. The reality is complex, truly complex. It won’t help us if everyone takes to the barricades on every issue. Listen for a moment to other parts of the nation, to your sisters and brothers, to entire communities in Israel that think a little differently.”
The president also addressed the state of the judicial system, saying that although it is not without flaws and there are gaps that need correction and improvement, “Any change must be made with respect, with the understanding that a strong, independent, and impartial judiciary is a critical and essential part of our lives, of our democratic existence – the solid foundation that holds us together. With the understanding that the court is our home, and the stones thrown at it harm us all.”
In addition, in his speech, Herzog did not hold back from criticizing moves that could further divide society, stating, “I warn anyone considering or acting to promote such measures – stop. Don’t dare.”
In closing, Herzog looked forward with faith and optimism, saying, “I tell you today, my friends: we will rise from the fracture. I believe this with complete and burning faith. We will emerge from it stronger and better, because we do not have the privilege of giving up on unity and hope.”
