Chaim Herzog, Israeli general, lawyer, and politician, 6th President of Israel (b. 1918)

Chaim Herzog, born on September 17, 1918, in Belfast, Ireland, and passing away on April 17, 1997, was a towering figure in Israeli public life. His journey spanned an impressive array of roles: a distinguished soldier who rose to the rank of Major-General, an astute lawyer, a prolific author, and an impactful diplomat, culminating in his service as the sixth President of Israel from 1983 to 1993. His life story is a remarkable tapestry woven with threads of Irish heritage, Zionist conviction, and dedicated service to the nascent and growing State of Israel.

Early Life and Formative Years

Born into a prominent Rabbinical family, Chaim Herzog's early years were shaped by his father, Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, who served as Ireland's Chief Rabbi and later became the Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Mandatory Palestine and Israel. Raised primarily in Dublin, young Chaim received a blend of traditional Jewish education and modern schooling. This unique upbringing, bridging European culture and deep Jewish roots, instilled in him a profound sense of identity and purpose. In 1935, driven by Zionist ideals, he immigrated to Mandatory Palestine, then under British rule, a pivotal move that would define the rest of his life.

From Paramilitary to Military Leadership

Upon his arrival in Palestine, Herzog quickly immersed himself in the Zionist endeavor. He joined the Haganah, the primary Jewish paramilitary organization, serving during the tumultuous 1936–1939 Arab Revolt. This period offered him invaluable early experience in defense and leadership. With the outbreak of World War II, Herzog put his military training to further use, enlisting in the British Army. He served with distinction in the Tank Corps and later in intelligence, participating in crucial campaigns including the liberation of concentration camps, an experience that undoubtedly left an indelible mark on him.

Following the war and the dramatic events of 1948—the end of the British Mandate, Israel's Declaration of Independence, and the ensuing Arab–Israeli War—Herzog returned to the newly formed State of Israel. He played a significant role in the conflict, notably fighting in the critical Battles of Latrun, which were fiercely contested attempts to open a corridor to besieged Jerusalem. His leadership and strategic acumen were quickly recognized, and he rose through the ranks of the nascent Israel Defence Forces (IDF), eventually retiring in 1962 with the esteemed rank of Major-General. His military career saw him serve as the head of Military Intelligence and as the IDF Spokesperson, roles where his clear communication skills and strategic insights proved invaluable.

A Distinguished Career in Law and Diplomacy

After concluding his distinguished military service, Chaim Herzog transitioned seamlessly into the legal profession. He qualified as a lawyer and, in 1972, co-founded Herzog, Fox & Ne'eman. This firm would rapidly grow to become one of Israel's largest and most respected law practices, a testament to his legal prowess and business acumen.

Standing Up at the United Nations

His impressive intellect and persuasive abilities soon led him to the international stage. From 1975 to 1978, Herzog served as Israel's Permanent Representative to the United Nations. It was during this tenure that he delivered one of his most memorable and defiant speeches. In November 1975, when the UN General Assembly passed Resolution 3379, infamously declaring "Zionism is Racism," Herzog unequivocally repudiated it. In a powerful and symbolic gesture, he tore up the resolution document before the assembly, declaring it "based on hatred, falsehood and arrogance." This act of defiance resonated deeply with Israelis and supporters of Israel worldwide, cementing his reputation as a courageous and principled advocate for his nation.

The Road to Presidency and Lasting Legacy

Chaim Herzog's journey into electoral politics began in 1981, when he secured a seat in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, as a member of the Alignment party. His political career, though relatively brief in the Knesset, quickly paved the way for his ascension to the nation's highest office.

President of Israel

In March 1983, Chaim Herzog was elected the sixth President of Israel. The role of the Israeli president is largely ceremonial, serving as a unifying figurehead, a moral compass, and a national symbol above the political fray. Herzog embraced this non-partisan role with grace and dignity. He served two full five-year terms, retiring in 1993, dedicating his presidency to fostering national unity, promoting dialogue, and representing Israel with honor on the global stage. His tenure was marked by a commitment to democratic values, intellectual discourse, and quiet statesmanship.

Four years after concluding his presidential duties, Chaim Herzog passed away on April 17, 1997. He was laid to rest on Mount Herzl, Israel's national cemetery in Jerusalem, a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to the service of his people and his country.

A Legacy Continued by His Son

The Herzog name continues to be synonymous with public service in Israel. His son, Isaac Herzog, has followed in his illustrious father's footsteps, not only leading the Israeli Labor Party and the parliamentary Opposition in the Knesset between 2013 and 2017 but also achieving the remarkable distinction of becoming the eleventh President of Israel in 2021. This made Chaim and Isaac Herzog the first father-son pair to both serve as the nation's head of state, an extraordinary continuation of a powerful legacy of leadership and commitment to Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chaim Herzog

What was Chaim Herzog's main contribution to Israel?

Chaim Herzog made significant contributions across multiple fields: he was a decorated military officer who rose to Major-General in the IDF, a prominent lawyer, a pivotal diplomat who famously repudiated the "Zionism is Racism" resolution at the UN, and served with distinction as Israel's sixth President, a unifying figurehead for the nation.

What was the significance of his background as "Irish-born"?

Herzog's birth in Belfast and upbringing in Dublin, as the son of Ireland's Chief Rabbi, provided him with a unique blend of European cultural exposure and deep Jewish heritage. This background contributed to his sophisticated understanding of international affairs and his ability to articulate Israel's position on the world stage with eloquence and conviction.

What was his role in the "Zionism is Racism" resolution?

As Israel's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Chaim Herzog delivered a powerful speech condemning UN General Assembly Resolution 3379, which equated Zionism with racism. In a dramatic and defiant act, he tore up the resolution document before the assembly, firmly rejecting its premise and becoming a symbol of Israeli resolve against international vilification.

What kind of role does the President of Israel typically hold?

The President of Israel holds a largely ceremonial and symbolic role. Unlike many other nations, the president is not the head of government but rather a unifying national figure. Their duties include formally nominating the prime minister, signing laws, appointing judges and ambassadors, and serving as a moral compass for the nation. The president is meant to be above partisan politics.

Is there a family connection to current Israeli politics?

Yes, Chaim Herzog's son, Isaac Herzog, has also had a distinguished career in Israeli politics. He served as a Member of Knesset, led the Labor Party, and most notably, became the eleventh President of Israel in 2021, making them the first father-son duo to hold the presidential office in Israel's history.