Israel Ministers Condemn Chief Rabbi for Denying to Join the Army During War & Threatening to Leave

Tensions escalate between the Israeli government and Orthodox Jews as Chief Rabbi Titzhak Yosef threatens to leave Israel if forced to join the army. Yosef's controversial remarks, declaring the importance of Torah study over military service, have sparked outrage among Israeli leaders and pro-war critics. Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemns Yosef's comments as an insult to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), emphasizing the necessity of military service for national security. Minister Benny Gantz echoes Lapid's sentiments, affirming the IDF's commitment to defending the land. Avigdor Liberman also opposes Yosef's stance, citing biblical verses to challenge the notion of exempting Orthodox Jews from military duty. Amid the controversy, reports emerge of Orthodox Jews leaving Israel over conscription plans, while others join protests against Zionism within the country. #israel #chiefrabi #israeldefenceforces #idf #bennygantz Subscribe to The Times of India's YouTube channel: For daily news & updates and exclusive stories, follow the Times of India Facebook: Instagram: Download the app: Follow the TOI WhatsApp channel: Follow TOI for well-researched and in-depth news and analysis Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: