Minister of Jerusalem Affairs (Likud) Ze’ev Elkin did not feel well on Shabbos, deciding to walk to Shaare Zedek rather than be mechalel Shabbos. Elkin, who is a candidate in the Jerusalem mayoral race, recently relocated to Jerusalem. He has been visiting different neighborhoods and shuls to become familiar and to permit residents to familiarize themselves with him. He also has given short divrei Torah in shuls after davening.

This Shabbos, he developed a very quick and aggressive gum infection, seemingly bad enough that he required prompt care. The decision was made to walk from Katamonim to Shaare Zedek Hospital, compelling his security entourage to make the walk with him on the 95F degree day. Elkin was capable of walking and did not see any reason for chilul Shabbos.

After the preliminary tests, the minister underwent a minor surgical procedure and he was released on motzei Shabbos. Upon advice of his doctors, he did not attend the Sunday morning cabinet meeting.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)