A heated debate erupted Monday during a session of the Knesset Finance Committee focused on funding and security arrangements for the upcoming hilulah of Rav Shimon bar Yochai in Meron.
The session turned chaotic when MK Naama Lazimi, a member of the opposition, clashed with chareidi representatives over the decision to divert trains to accommodate the tens of thousands traveling to Meron for Lag BaOmer.
Lazimi criticized the rerouting of train service to Karmiel, claiming it disrupted regular public transportation in favor of what she described as a “gang of draft dodgers and looters” heading to the pilgrimage. Her remarks sparked outrage in the room.
Yerushalayim and Heritage Minister Meir Porush, who is responsible for oversight of the Meron event, tried to respond calmly to Lazimi’s criticisms, but she refused to back down.
The situation escalated when MK Moshe Gafni lost patience and shouted at Lazimi: “Get out! Leave the room! I ask that she be removed. You savage!”
MK Yitzchok Pindrus joined the backlash, accusing Lazimi of blatant prejudice, declaring, “This is antisemitism—plain and simple.”
Footage from the explosive committee hearing was broadcast on the Knesset Channel and quickly spread online, adding fuel to the ongoing tensions.
{Matzav.com Israel}