Gallant tells ministers, MKs to avoid political statements during Memorial Day

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has sent a letter instructing ministers and members of Knesset to avoid making political statements during Memorial Day.

Gallant notes that the day is “one of the most sensitive and sacred” days of the year, and “now more than ever” politicans must send a message of unity.

In the letter, the defense minister notes the intense public debate over the presence of politicians at Memorial Day ceremonies, as the country remains sharply divided over the government’s judicial overhaul plans.

Gallant says he believes lawmakers should attend such ceremonies, but “must not include political comments in the ‘holy of holies,’ the military cemeteries.” Instead they should convey messages of Zionism, cooperation and unity, and honor bereaved families.

He also praises an initiative by opposition MK Chili Tropper, who has signed 100 MKs onto a commitment not to make political statements during the day.