Ligeti László (born 1952), President of the Jewish community of Mosonmagyaróvár, a town in northwestern Hungary. Owns a real estate agency.
In 1939 the Hungarian government combined the two existing towns of Magyaróvár and Moson into one city called Mosonmagyaróvár. In 1944 the number of Jews in the ghetto in Mosonmagyaróvár was around 400 people, Most of them were murdered during the holocaust.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state has to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Like the burning bush, Israel is constant reference point to all Jewish people.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, the world would be poorer without Israel.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I wish for peace and I don’t always agree with the current political steps, but I understand that peace can’t be achieved by the will of only one side.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“I actually feel the Israelis better understand my reality than i understand theirs.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“In general I think Israel’s relationship with the Diaspora is good, although it certainly could be improved in some ways.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Obligation? every individual and community should choose for itself. If a Jewish community is really attacked because of it’s Jewish nature it’s natural to want to defend it, But there is no need for Israel to send policeman or soldiers to protect that community, it’s sufficient if Israel offers it’s services in cases help is needed.”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“Yes.”
If an Israeli tourist should ever come across your hometown, which experience should he/she not miss?
“Generally to see what previous generations have done for the development of our city and how we protect these memories.”
