Full Breakdown
Investigation into Mohel Moshe Drai Following Infant Death
4/21/2026, 12:46:54 PM
Overview of the Investigation
A new complaint has been filed against Moshe Drai, a 66-year-old mohel from Bnei Brak, who is under investigation for the death of a one-month-old baby following a circumcision he performed. This complaint adds to three other ongoing investigations, including a 2023 case where a baby was hospitalized in critical condition after a similar procedure but ultimately survived. The police are actively exploring additional cases linked to Drai, who has been arrested and interrogated on suspicion of negligent manslaughter.
Details of the Allegations
The investigation has revealed a troubling pattern of actions attributed to Drai. The Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court has extended his house arrest until April 23, based on findings and testimonies that suggest he may have caused significant harm to minors during circumcisions. Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, Chief Rabbi of Safed, testified that he is aware of approximately ten other cases where parents reported harm to their children by Drai. Rabbi Moshe Morsiano, Chairman of the Mohel Association, indicated that around 70 complaints are received annually regarding circumcision-related issues, with Drai being linked to several of these cases.
Evidence and Testimonies
Investigators have gathered substantial evidence, including correspondence between Drai and members of the Mohel Association, where he allegedly sought to suppress reports of a previous injury from 2022. A medical opinion has concluded that the damage inflicted in one case was a direct result of negligence. The police plan to collect further testimonies from emergency medical personnel who treated the affected infants and other mohels referred to families post-procedure.
Obstruction of Justice Allegations
The investigation took a significant turn with the arrest of a rabbi from Bnei Brak, who is suspected of obstructing justice by refusing to cooperate with police inquiries. This rabbi was recorded advising the family of the deceased infant not to speak negatively about Drai, raising concerns about potential cover-up efforts.
Family's Perspective
The father of the infant who died expressed his distress in an interview, stating that he approached the police to prevent Drai from harming other children. He recounted attempts to contact Drai in the aftermath of the circumcision, noting that he only realized the severity of the situation after consulting another mohel, who indicated that they had made a significant mistake.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The investigation into Moshe Drai continues, with police actively pursuing additional testimonies and evidence. The implications of these findings could lead to further legal actions and a reevaluation of practices surrounding circumcision in Israel. As the situation develops, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of children undergoing such procedures.
