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Rabbi Sparks Outrage Calling Bereaved Father a Heretic

10/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Former Sephardi Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef labeled Tamir Granot, a bereaved father and head of a hesder yeshiva, a heretic for advocating conscription of yeshiva students.
In leaked recordings, Yosef argued that those who study Torah protect Israel.
The remarks drew condemnation from politicians including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.
Lawmaker Ohad Tal criticized Yosef for disrespecting Granot, who lost his son in combat.
The conflict escalated after Granot publicly criticized Yosef's stance on military service.

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Story summary

Former Sephardi Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef labeled Tamir Granot, a bereaved father and head of a hesder yeshiva, a heretic for advocating conscription of yeshiva students.
In leaked recordings, Yosef argued that those who study Torah protect Israel.
The remarks drew condemnation from politicians including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.
Lawmaker Ohad Tal criticized Yosef for disrespecting Granot, who lost his son in combat.
The conflict escalated after Granot publicly criticized Yosef's stance on military service.