Chief Rabbi: No Government Without Yeshiva Student Status Guarantee

Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef has issued a clear directive to political representatives, stating that no government will be formed with Haredi parties after the upcoming elections unless a law is passed to draft yeshiva students and secure their status. Speaking to hundreds of yeshiva students and scholars, Rabbi Yosef emphasized that Haredi parties have learned from past mistakes and will not enter a coalition without this guarantee.

"I am telling you now, the next government will not be formed with us unless they guarantee the status of yeshiva students, certainly," he stated. Rabbi Yosef acknowledged past errors made by Haredi parties but stressed the importance of ensuring "strength for the Torah" moving forward. He urged his audience not to be swayed by criticism of the Haredi political representation, warning that not voting would empower secular and anti-religious forces.

Rabbi Yosef also indirectly addressed his sister, Adina Bar Shalom, who has joined forces with Gadi Eisenkot. He questioned the legacy of their father, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, asking if it was to "shake hands with Eisenkot." According to Rabbi Yosef, the true legacy is to continue supporting Torah study, yeshivas, and ritual baths (mikvahs).