Shas Party Holds Memorial Event Using Private Funds After State Funding Denied

The Shas party will hold a memorial event, or "hillula," for the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef using private funds, following a decision by the Attorney General to postpone state funding for such events until after the upcoming elections. Shas Chairman Arie Deri lit a candle in memory of Rabbi Yosef during a special faction meeting, vowing to continue the Rabbi's path. The Supreme Court previously declined to intervene in the Attorney General's decision to cancel state funding for the memorial event due to its proximity to the elections. This cancellation occurred despite a law stipulating that the Ministry of Religious Services should organize a commemorative event for Rabbi Yosef. Deri criticized the decision, stating it was not just an attack on Shas but on a large, faithful public whose heritage is being treated with condescension. He asserted that the decision strengthens Shas's resolve to reform the justice system and return power to the people and their elected officials, emphasizing that Rabbi Yosef's legacy cannot be stopped by the courts or the Attorney General's office, as it lives on in the hearts of millions.