Religious Critic Condemns Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi's Remarks as Disrespect to IDF Chief and Soldiers

Zali Yafe sharply criticized Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi's statements made during a recent protest, accusing them of constituting a severe desecration of God's name and disrespect toward the IDF Chief of Staff and Israeli soldiers. Yafe emphasized that it is thanks to the military's protection that yeshiva students can continue their Torah studies safely. He highlighted the indiscriminate nature of Arab terrorism, which targets both religious and secular Jews alike, citing attacks such as the November 18, 2014, synagogue shooting in Har Nof and numerous other terror incidents affecting various communities across Israel.

Yafe called on Rabbi Yazdi to apologize to the IDF Chief of Staff for his "terrible, foolish, and brazen" remarks, which he said deeply dishonor the military leadership. He also condemned a yeshiva student who tore an Israeli flag during the protest, questioning the student's gratitude toward the state and its services. Yafe expressed pride in his own religious identity but shame over Rabbi Yazdi's conduct, stressing that many Shas party voters and representatives serve honorably in elite IDF units.

Although Rabbi Yazdi is not a leader within the Shas movement, Yafe noted that the rabbi gained unwanted publicity through his protest comments. Yafe concluded by urging respect for the military and lamenting the desecration of God's name caused by such statements, expressing doubt that Rabbi Yazdi will offer the requested apology.