The Honorable MK Erez Malul is a man on a mission. As a respected lawyer, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, and a member of the Shas party, he strives to make a meaningful, positive impact on Israeli society. I had the privilege of interviewing MK Malul about his role in the Knesset on the day the remains of the Bibas family were returned to Israel, an especially somber day for the nation.
That morning, the Knesset held its usual meetings and discussions; but once the process of returning the hostages began, everything came to a halt. The Knesset essentially shut down as an expression of solidarity with the grieving family. MK Malul described the deep sense of mourning that permeated the building, explaining that those who work there see themselves as partners in the pain of the hostages’ families. I could sense the heaviness in his voice, reflecting the grief we all share.
As an MK for over two years, Malul has worked tirelessly to address social challenges in Israeli society, with a particular focus on the high cost of living. He strives to ease the financial burden on Israeli citizens by advocating for lower prices on basic products, affordable housing, and initiatives to support large families.
However, since the outbreak of war, everything has changed. The Knesset’s primary focus has shifted to war-related issues: providing aid to bereaved families, hostages, reserve soldiers, and displaced communities. In response, MK Malul has redirected much of his efforts to supporting these vulnerable groups, helping them navigate this painful and uncertain time.
MK Malul begins his day early, assisting his wife with their six children before attending Shacharis. At the Knesset, he navigates a packed schedule filled with meetings, committee discussions, votes, and plenary sessions. Outside the Knesset, he frequently attends community events, particularly memorial ceremonies honoring those who have been killed since October 7.
Beyond his parliamentary duties, MK Malul remains deeply attuned to the needs of all sectors of Israeli society. One pressing concern is the prolonged time Israeli citizens have spent in safe rooms over the past year and a half. He recognizes the immense challenge this poses, particularly for families with many children or individuals with disabilities who are confined for extended periods in small, cramped spaces. In response, MK Malul has introduced legislation mandating larger, more functional shelters equipped with bathrooms and showers. His proposal, which has garnered broad support across the political spectrum, is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for citizens during emergencies.
MK Malul advocated for leniencies for law students who served in combat, recognizing the enormous challenge of studying while on the battlefield. With only 31-32% of reservists passing the Bar Exam, many struggled to balance their academic responsibilities with their duty to defend the country. Thanks to his efforts, an additional 20% passed, ensuring they were not penalized for answering the call to serve. Malul’s phone was flooded with messages of gratitude from reservists who reached out to thank him personally.
In the past, I often heard that despite the media’s portrayal of fighting, discord, and tension between Knesset members, they do get along behind closed doors. I asked MK Malul if this still holds true today, when Israeli society feels more polarized than ever. He answered with conviction, explaining that at the end of the day, “We are all people, and we are all Jews” (except for the Arab MKs). He described how MKs attend one another’s simchos and l’vayos r”l, moments that transcend politics.
There are ideological differences and differences of opinion, but there’s nothing wrong with that, he stated. Hillel and Shamai disagreed, and so did Rava and Abaye. But they lived in achdus. They didn’t burn tires in the streets. They didn’t cause division or try to dismantle the government.
According to MK Malul, disagreement is natural but must be handled respectfully. MKs must choose their battles wisely and ensure that debate never descends into hatred or destruction.
MK Malul believes that even those with opposing views in the Knesset can find common ground and work together. This belief was demonstrated when, after more than 200 days of grueling reserve duty, Major Gilad Elmaliach of the Nahal Brigade made the ultimate sacrifice, falling in southern Lebanon just two days after Simchas Torah. At only 30 years old, he left behind a wife and their five young children.
In a powerful display of unity, members of both the coalition and the opposition set aside their political differences to pay a shiv’ah call to the Elmaliach family. MK Malul went to the shiv’ah with Matan Kahana of the centrist National Unity Party. Their joint presence brought comfort to the grieving family, reaffirming that Gilad’s sacrifice was not in vain. The moment served as a kiddush Hashem, showing that despite ideological differences, the bond of am Yisrael remains unbreakable.
For MK Malul, respectful dialogue is not just an ideal. It’s a way of life. He recently experienced this firsthand in a conversation with the family of Oded Lifshitz, whose remains were also returned to Israel on the day we spoke. The family expressed their complaints and criticism, yet they did so without hatred or personal attacks. They voiced their pain, listened to MK Malul’s perspective, and parted with a heartfelt hug.
This sense of mutual respect extends to his colleagues in the Knesset. When MK Malul passes Meirav Cohen of the Yesh Atid party in the halls, they greet each other. Disagreement does not have to breed division. Differences of opinion can coexist with kindness and respect. This is how it should be – and how it must be – as Israel works to rebuild not only its security, but its unity as a nation.
I asked MK Malul if he had any message he would like to share with the readers of the Queens Jewish Link. He expressed deep gratitude to those who came on missions to provide emotional and financial support in the wake of the largest attack Israel has faced since the establishment of the State.
MK Malul also values the unwavering backing of President Trump, who recognizes Hamas as the ruthless terror organization it is, and understands that this war is not solely about Israel’s survival. It is a fight for the entire free world. He also thanked President Trump for his historic decision to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem, a bold act that affirmed the unbreakable bond between Israel and its capital.
Despite his long hours, MK Malul actively seeks additional responsibilities. His leadership combines a commitment to traditional values with a constant pursuit of improving Israeli society. We wholeheartedly wish him success in accomplishing his mission. In Israel’s fight for security and unity, his success is our success.
Please continue to daven for the recovery of the wounded, the release of the remaining hostages, and the success and safe return of all chayalim and security personnel.
Suzie Steinberg, (nee Schapiro), CSW, is a native of Kew Gardens Hills and resident of Ramat Beit Shemesh who publishes articles regularly in various newspapers and magazines about life in general, and about life in Israel in particular. Her recently published children’s book titled Hashem is Always With Me can be purchased in local Judaica stores as well as online. Suzie can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and would love to hear from you.
