Rav Yitzchok Yosef, former Sephardic Chief Rabbi, voiced his endorsement for negotiating with Hamas to secure the release of hostages in Gaza, even if it meant exchanging them for individuals convicted of terrorism. In a conversation with Haderech, the Shas party’s newspaper, Rabbi Yosef referenced his father’s opinion on the matter, emphasizing that “We must do everything in order to free them quickly.”

Rav Yosef also addressed the many complex halachic questions that have arisen since the war began after the October 7 attack, particularly regarding the hostages who were killed and whose remains are being held by Hamas. He explained, “We needed to go over all sorts of proofs and the most difficult footage,” describing the pain of the families as “terrible and horrific.” He pointed out that this war has become “the longest war Israel has had,” noting that Israel is fighting on multiple fronts at once.

Regarding the Draft Law, Rav Yosef expressed strong support for the decision made by the Shas Moetzet Chachmei Hatorah, which declared that yeshiva students “should not appear at all in the Draft Offices and should not respond to any draft orders.” He lamented that “unfortunately, we see how the persecution of those who learn Torah continues to increase,” and expressed hope that “very soon, the status of yeshiva students will be normalized, so that they can continue to invest in their studies undisturbed.”

Rav Yosef also vehemently denied allegations of misinterpreting his stance on IDF soldiers. He clarified, “We love them, we pray for them every single day, that they should return to their homes healthy and whole,” noting his regular visits to IDF bases where he teaches Torah to the soldiers. “Dozens and hundreds of soldiers arrive here each day, and we receive them all with great love. They risk their lives for the nation of Israel, and we need to know how to show them gratitude,” he emphasized.

{Matzav.com Israel}