Why didn't the Rebbe ever go to Israel?

The following is a Yechidus with the Rebbe that ranking officer in the
IDF, Lt. General Ron Pekar, who served in the air force. He
transcribed the audience in his private diary


"Are you worried," asked the officer..."about living as a Jew here in
Brooklyn, in a non-Jewish environment?"


"As a soldier you are surely aware," answered the Rebbe, "that during
the time of combat there is no chance to reflect on your fear. You
must fight with courage and sincerity, regardless of how you feel.
Similarly, when I am immersed in my work, even if the extraneous
conditions are unfriendly, I have faith and trust in G-d, because He
alone controls what takes place here on earth, and is looking out for
the interests of every Jew."


"But," persisted the Israeli, "why don't you move to Israel? Your
revered stature and dynamic manner will certainly influence the
political and religious scene. Aware that many people questioned you
regarding this, I have heard several different replies, but, the
replies are unsatisfactory, and for me the question remains."
The Rebbe answered, "Living in Israel and enduring the
responsibilities that would come with it, my influence on world Jewry
would be restricted. Inevitably, my controversial position on issues
would limit my capability of communicating with Jews, both outside of
Israel, in Moscow, for example, and in Israel; in fact, even this
conversation would be impossible in Tel Aviv. I find this place the
most conducive for my work."