The Jewish people are referred to in the Bible as “stiff-necked”. We are a people that do not take things for granted; we ask questions, we debate and we defy. A culture of scepticism has expanded our thinking throughout the generations and is also one that has helped us find truth and direction as a people.

Rivalry and strife are almost an integral part of our history in ancient and modern times. Not long ago, at the dawn of the 20th Century, the Uganda Scheme tore the Zionist movement apart. The Jewish people stood on the brink of another historic division, but our unity was stronger, and we were able to make monumental decisions.

Every time we argued amongst ourselves, but maintained our basic common ground, we managed to grow and develop out of dispute. However, when we crossed the lines of debate; where we boycotted and ostracised each other, and lost our core common grounds, we paid heavy and historical prices. The heaviest was the exile; the loss of our sovereignty in the Land of Israel.

The deep understanding that unity is the most significant element in our standing as a people, against the challenges that threaten us from the outside, is perhaps the most important historical lesson for the Jewish people.

The State of Israel is a visible miracle. After 2000 years of exile, we have the historical right to fulfil the prayer of the generations "Next year in Jerusalem".

The State of Israel is not perfect, but this is our one and only homeland. Israel is our anchor and our most important asset as a people. We must protect and preserve this valuable asset at all costs.

For better or worse, we must stand by Israel's side. This is not a political matter but a comprehensive understanding of the historical role and destiny that the Jewish State has in Jewish lives. These two are inextricably linked.

In these moments, when the election results in Israel sharpen the debate inside and outside of the country, we must remain united around our shared core common ground that Israel is the one and only homeland of the Jewish people. There is no alternative, no other Israel.

Democracy is tested in moments when the majority’s decision must be accepted, even when the results are challenging. Israel is above any political dispute.

We are one and a united people.