“My personal belief is that there would be peace on earth if religion was something private and individual between people and their god.”

The Interviewee -David M. Abouav (Born 1943), Executive Chairman The Univex Group, Founder The Australia Times, Founder Nimbus Media Ltd. Born in Gav Yam A (now Kiryat Yam). I was the first baby of Kiryat Yam. Today i live in Melbourne, Australia.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“As the country of my birth Israel is of great importance to me. I think it represent the centre for Judaism the homeland for all Jews.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Absolutely!”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“I am ethnically a Jew but I do not believe in any form of organised religion. My personal belief is that there would be peace on earth if religion was something private and individual between people and their god. I support the right of others to believe as they believe as long as they do not suppress other people’s rights.”

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“No! It is the business of those who manage it. The only comment I would make is that Israel is condemned and accused of human right abuses regardless of how gentle they try to be so they may as well use real force…”

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“I do not believe Israelis fail to understand anything about the reality of being Jewish outside Israel. I think there are Jews living in countries that they should abandon en masse!”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“Not applicable to me.“

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Its a two way street I would help some communities depart their countries en masse.“

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?

“I am a Sabra that left Israel for the last time after my national service.“

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?

“It is a large community but I have little to do with it.“