Asher Lazar (1914-1985)

Asher Lazar was a distinguished journalist and public servant whose career spanned the critical formative years of the State of Israel. As a front-page writer for Haaretz, one of Israel’s leading newspapers, he reported on pivotal events during the British Mandate period and the early years of Israeli statehood. His insightful reporting, access to multiple heads of state, and dedication to journalistic integrity earned him recognition both domestically and internationally.

In addition to his work with Ha’aretz, Lazar served as the Zionist Correspondent to The Times of London, providing the British public with informed perspectives on the developments in Palestine and the Zionist movement.

In December 1947, during the tumultuous period following the United Nations’ partition plan, Lazar was seriously injured in a stabbing attack amid the Arab riots in Jerusalem. Despite sustaining multiple wounds to the abdomen, he survived and continued his journalistic endeavors, demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment to his profession.

Following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Lazar transitioned into public service, taking on roles that were vital to the young nation’s development. He worked in public relations, helping to shape Israel’s international image during its nascent years. Later, he joined the Jewish Agency for Israel, where he played a significant role in coordinating the Aliyah (immigration) of Moroccan, Algerian, Egyptian, Hungarian, and Romanian Jews via Marseilles, France, facilitating their integration into Israeli society. A gifted polyglot with an extraordinary talent for cross-cultural communication, Lazar was known for his ability to connect meaningfully with people from all walks of life.

Lazar also spent a period in New York City, where he and his wife Nechama owned and operated Lazar’s Sefer Israel, a bookstore specializing in Hebrew-language textbooks. Through this venture, he contributed to Jewish education in the Americas by providing essential resources to Hebrew schools and educators.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Asher Lazar was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy endures through his contributions to journalism, public service, and the Jewish community at large.