HaGaon HaRav Chaim Kanievsky Shlita arrived at the entrance to Elad on motzei Shabbos, were he was met by Yisrael Porush and dozens of supporters. The rav did not enter Elad, but sat aside the vehicle and signed an endorsement on behalf of his mayoral bid. The rav attended an atzeres in Tamir Hall in Yerushalayim together with HaGaon HaRav Aaron Yehuda Leib Shteinman Shlita.

Kikar Shabbos report the gadol hador was on the way to the kenos and when they reached the entrance of Elad, he refused to enter the city. Thousands taking part in the event was waiting in anticipation for his arrival, yet Rav Chaim instructed his gabbaim to turn around. The report states the decision by Rav Chaim lies in the fact that since Elad has been established Rav Chaim has spoken out against it and never visited. When asked, he never gave his bracha for those seeking to move to Elad. In the past he has refused all requests to attend a kenos in the city.

Porush, accompanied by dozens of supporters arrived at the rav’s car at the community entrance where he received a bracha and the rav then turned around and left. It is reported that HaGaon HaRav Aaron Yehuda Leib Shteinman Shlita has never taken part in a kenos in Elad either. Needless to say the gadol hador’s decision was a significant blow as the tzibur was expecting to see Rav Chaim.

Ladaat adds that according to eyewitnesses, workers were still building and preparing the stage for the event 15 minutes for Shabbos, leading to criticism against Porush.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)