Investigation Alleges Funds for Oct. 7 Victims' Families Diverted to Yeshiva Students

An investigation by Israel's Channel 12 has revealed that a non-profit organization, founded by Dror Amos, a candidate for the Shas party in the Knesset, allegedly diverted a significant portion of state funding intended for families of victims from the October 7th attacks to provide scholarships for married yeshiva students. In 2024, the organization reportedly received 4.8 million shekels for this purpose. However, over 2.5 million shekels were allegedly spent on yeshiva student stipends, according to the investigation. Representatives from several victim families and affected communities stated they had never heard of the organization.

The investigation also uncovered contracts with municipalities and religious councils linked to Shas. This has raised suspicions of potential double-funding, as similar services may have already been covered by the Ministry of Religious Services. Furthermore, journalists reported on the organization's ties to Amos's relatives and private family businesses.

Amos stepped down as head of the organization in May 2025, following his appointment as head of the Haifa Religious Council, citing a potential conflict of interest. His brother then took over leadership. Shas has dismissed the investigation as "false" and politically motivated against the party. The Ministry of Religious Services stated that a conflict of interest agreement was properly approved. The advocacy group ITIM plans to request that Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara investigate these allegations.