He is known for being a devoted family man who enjoys simple pleasures like reading, playing ping-pong and tennis, and being in the company of animals. He is a rare combination: Renaissance man, freedom fighter and down to earth.
Edelstein has held many portfolios including Minister of Immigrant Absorption and Minister of Information and Diaspora Affairs. But he is also a private person. He has a daughter and son who shun publicity and I got the distinct impression that he would shun it too if he didn’t believe that his calling was to educate the world about Israel.
He describes anti-Semitism and hatred of Israel as a multi-headed monster – each with its own motivation and agenda: religious, political, or economic, but all resulting from ignorance. Edelstein wants to overcome this ignorance, especially among the young and innocent who have not yet been poisoned by it. “Most people don’t know the first thing about Israel and we have to give them the basics and prove that Israel belongs to us.” But Edelstein also believes that everyone seeking refuge in Israel who has a Jewish grandparent has a right to be here, “It is our responsibility to make sure that they settle and contribute in a positive way. “
Despite the recent tragic loss of his wife Tanya, who was his helpmate, friend, advisor and confidante, Edelstein plans to continue to do the best job he can as speaker of the Knesset and advocator for Israel. What lies ahead no one knows but Edelstein intends to keep pursuing his vision. As he is so good at what he does, Israel will continue to be behind him every step of the way, however he chooses to represent her.