Binyamin "Benny" Elon (born 10 November 1954 in Jerusalem; Hebrew: בנימין אלון — died 5 May 2017 in Jerusalem) was an Israeli Orthodox rabbi and politician known for his involvement in right-leaning nationalist parties and his tenure in government.
Political career
Elon was elected to the Knesset in 1996 and remained a member of parliament until 2009, representing first Moledet and later the National Union alliance. During the premiership of Ariel Sharon he held the post of Minister of Tourism twice, serving from 2001 to 2002 and again from 2003 to 2004.
Residence and personal life
For about two decades Elon lived in Beit El, an Israeli settlement located in the West Bank. He was married to author and journalist Emuna Elon and the couple had six children.
Family background
Elon came from a prominent legal and religious family. His father, Menachem Elon, served at high levels of Israel's judiciary as a leading Supreme Court figure. His younger brother, Rabbi Mordechai Elon, is a well-known personality within the Religious Zionist community who has attracted controversy.
Illness and death
In February 2006 Elon was diagnosed with throat cancer. Although he received treatment, the illness persisted and contributed to his withdrawal from active politics in 2008 for health reasons. He died on 5 May 2017 at the age of 62 from complications related to the disease.