Rabbi Dov Lando sparks controversy with criticism of Zionism

Dov Lando, a 96-year-old prominent ultra-Orthodox rabbi and leader of Israel’s Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox community, has drawn significant criticism following the release of a video recording in which he denigrates Zionism.

In the footage, Lando is heard stating that the ideology of Zionism has caused the Jewish people to suffer “disasters” and suggesting that Jewish Israelis might have been better off without a state. He also remarked that Zionism “caused the Arabs to hate us.”

Lando heads a yeshiva in Bnei Brak and serves as the spiritual leader of the Degel HaTorah party, which is part of the United Torah Judaism alliance within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition. His remarks have drawn rebukes from Israeli politicians, particularly as the country approaches landmark legislative elections where the role of the ultra-Orthodox community and military service remains a central issue.