Colonel Michael Scott CSC has had a thirty-year career as a professional soldier with the Australian Defence Force.  From July 2019 to September 2021, he served with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation in the Middle East, living with his wife in Jerusalem. His mission encompassed Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt. He was recognized with a Conspicuous Service Cross, citing his outstanding devotion to duty in non-warlike operations during a period of increased regional frictions and COVID challenges. 

The October 7 and 9 events at the Opera House profoundly affected him. In July 2024, he founded The 2023 Foundation, dedicated to combating antisemitism, and is committed to partnering with others who share his mission. (0:30-27:23)

In the second part of my extensive interview with Rabbi Elisha Pearl we delve further into the insights and strategic wisdom of Make Peace: A Strategic Guide for Achieving Lasting Peace In Israel. This pivotal work, based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, provides an authoritative guide for Israeli leaders, the IDF and policymakers.

In this episode I ask Elisha about the refusal of many Haredim to serve in the IDF and invite him to eviscerate an article written by the head of the New Israel Fund in Australia Michael Chaitow that appeared in the Australia Jewish News a few weeks ago. (27:30-57:30)