Rabbinical Judge Avi Zerbib Reprimanded for Ethical Violations

According to Bizportal, the complaint stemmed from a WhatsApp video in which Zerbib praised a particular sector and called for donations to a fund supporting it. Zerbib, who also lit a torch at Israel's 78th Independence Day ceremony, claimed the video was intended for a small, private group and was distributed widely without his knowledge or consent. Kola ruled that digital dissemination is effectively public and that judges are strictly forbidden from soliciting funds.

Kola opted for a warning to be recorded in Zerbib's personal file rather than pursuing disciplinary action, citing Zerbib's immediate recognition of wrongdoing, his complete remorse, and his commitment to cease all media and public appearances. Kola also gave significant weight to Zerbib's extensive reserve military service in combat zones.

This is the second time Zerbib has faced a justified ethical complaint. According to Kipa, Kola previously found in February that Zerbib had violated ethical rules for judges due to a remark he made about "stirring up Gaza." Kola warned that any future violations would result in full disciplinary measures.