Rabbi Amir Krispel Reveals Rabbi Ovadia Yosef’s Shift Against Oslo Peace Agreements

In a new episode of "Yossi Shel Podcast," Rabbi Amir Krispel, who served as the personal secretary to Rabbi Ovadia Yosef for many years, disclosed how the Oslo Accords changed the late Rabbi’s political stance. Initially, Rabbi Yosef believed that saving Jewish lives justified territorial concessions, citing Jewish law that prioritizes saving lives over land. However, after witnessing the reality on the ground, including the Palestinian education system promoting hatred, he became deeply disillusioned and opposed any further peace agreements with the Palestinians.

Rabbi Krispel recounted that Rabbi Yosef was very cautious and thorough in his security assessments, consulting military experts and examining detailed maps before making decisions. A notable story involved the Hebron agreement, where Rabbi Yosef ruled against conceding Hebron and instructed the Shas party to leave the government if the city was divided, a move that was carried out.

The interview also touched on current issues, with Rabbi Krispel stating that if Rabbi Yosef were alive today, he would rule that ultra-Orthodox men who do not study Torah should be drafted into the Israel Defense Forces. Additionally, Krispel commented on internal Shas party dynamics, noting that party leader Aryeh Deri faces challenges related to appointing Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef as head of the Council of Torah Sages.

Beyond political and religious topics, Rabbi Krispel shared personal anecdotes about Rabbi Yosef’s favorite foods, music preferences, and private moments away from the public eye. The full episode offers a rare glimpse into the life and evolving views of one of Israel’s most influential rabbis.