Jerusalem: A lawmaker from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing Likud party has drawn attention with his remarks on the distinct nature of Jewish identity and law. Hanoch Milwidsky, during a discussion on the Jewish people's mission and religious identity, stated that "we are not like everyone else," implying that the laws applicable to others "cannot apply to us," as reported by Israel's Channel 13.

According to Anadolu Agency, Milwidsky emphasized the unique mission of establishing a Jewish state worthy of Jews, referencing the biblical notion of 'a people that shall dwell alone' to highlight a sense of separateness. He argued that the considerations of international statesmen should not influence Israeli policies, advocating for a focus on Jewish sources and religious figures as guides.

Milwidsky's comments have sparked debate amid ongoing criticism of policies by Israeli right-wing figures, which some rights groups claim promote Jewish supremacy over Palestinians. Israeli rights group B'Tselem has labeled Israel's governance over Palestinians as a regime of 'Jewish supremacy,' suggesting these policies aim to prioritize Jewish rights and control.

This is not the first time Milwidsky has courted controversy. During a Knesset debate in July 2024 regarding allegations of sexual abuse by soldiers against a Palestinian detainee, Milwidsky controversially remarked that "everything is legitimate" concerning individuals he identified as Hamas members.