The leader of Israel’s Democrats party, Yair Golan, is facing fierce backlash after a leaked recording captured him describing the Chareidi community as “parasites” and comparing them to Palestinians during a closed-door meeting with party activists in Kiryat Ono.

In the recording, Golan referred to the growing Chareidi population and said, “Today they’re 13.5% of the population,” before adding, “A community that’s growing rapidly, living like a parasite off the rest of the population—this can’t work.”

He continued with further criticism of the Chareidi community, saying, “You’re too heavy, we can’t carry you on our backs. We can’t work for you and pay taxes for you.”

Golan also drew a comparison between his views on the Chareidi public and the Palestinian issue, stating: “Regarding the Haredim, just as I said regarding the Palestinians—separation or annexation. Regarding the Haredim—segregation or integration.”

The remarks quickly sparked outrage among Chareidi politicians and community leaders, who condemned the comments as inflammatory and divisive, accusing Golan of demonizing an entire sector of Israeli society.

The leaked recording is the latest in a series of controversial statements by Golan that have drawn widespread criticism across Israel’s political spectrum.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)