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Moshe FeiglinIsraeli public and political figure, founder of the Zo Artzeinu movement
Date of Birth: 31.07.1962
Country:  Israel |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Service and Business Career
- Skyscraper Maintenance Business
- Political Activism
- Protests and Civil Disobedience
- Establishment of MEKIMI
- Creating a Political Faction within Likud
- Political Career
- Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in HaifaMoshe Feiglin was born in Haifa, Israel, to Esther and Jacob Feiglin, descendants of First Aliyah immigrants. He attended Tachkemoni School in Rehovot and later studied at the Or Etzion Yeshiva Tichonit under Rabbi Haim Druckman.
Military Service and Business Career
Officer in the IDF, Engineering CorpsFeiglin served as an officer in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Engineering Corps, and retired with the rank of Rav Seren (Major).
Skyscraper Maintenance Business
After completing his military service, Feiglin established a business specializing in the maintenance of skyscrapers.
Political Activism
Founding "Zo Artzeinu"Opposition to Oslo Accords
In 1988, Feiglin moved to Samaria. After the election of the left-wing government led by Yitzhak Rabin, he founded the "Zo Artzeinu" movement to oppose the proposed Oslo Accords, which aimed to transfer control of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank to the Palestinian Authority.
Protests and Civil Disobedience
Zo Artzeinu organized protests and demonstrations, including the "Machpelah Operation," which aimed to double the number of existing settlements. Feiglin was arrested and charged with incitement, but after Benny Elon, a fellow activist, was elected to the Knesset, his trial was suspended.
Establishment of MEKIMI
Research and Analysis on Israeli PoliticsFeiglin founded the MEKIMI think tank, which brought together academics and researchers to explore socio-political issues facing Israel and its future. The results of their research were published in books, including works co-authored by Feiglin and Motti Karpel.
Creating a Political Faction within Likud
Manhigut YehuditDisillusioned with existing right-wing politicians, Feiglin established the Manhigut Yehudit (Jewish Leadership) faction within the Likud party. The faction advocated for liberal-national values enshrined in Likud's charter, such as the settlement of all parts of Israel and the strengthening of Jewish identity.
Political Career
Challenging for Likud LeadershipFeiglin ran several times for the position of Likud chairman, but was defeated by Benjamin Netanyahu in the 2007 election, obtaining 23.5% of the votes.
Personal Life
FamilyMoshe Feiglin is married to Zippi and has five children and two grandchildren.
