IDF Chief of Personnel Branch Major-General Chaggai Tupolinsky summoned IDF Chief Rabbi Appointee Rabbi Eyal Karim to a clarification meeting. The meeting was the military’s response to an outcry from the left-wing and women’s rights organizations, which R”L stem from a halachic piece written by Rabbi Karim about a decade ago on the topic ‘Eishes Yifas Toar’ (‘אשת יפת תואר’). In a brazen display of a total lack of understanding of Torah concepts, they call to disqualify the appointment, alleging the rabbi has come out in support of attacking women during wartime.

The meeting comes following Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman approving the appointment and Rabbi Karim’s promotion from colonel to brigadier-general. During the clarification meeting, Rabbi Karim clearly stated his position on a number of matters, including the absolute prohibition against harming women during wartime or any time, despite the warped interpretation of a Torah concept as portrayed by the women’s organizations and left-wing Members of Knesset.

Rabbi Karim also expressed his support for women wishing to serve in the IDF, and the IDF’s policy during recent years towards equality for women in the military. This unfortunate policy has led to men and women serving side-by-side.

The rav also had to clarify his position regarding shirat noshim (women vocalists), stating he took part in dozens of such events and has never walked out. He is quoted adding that he is proud to have been selected to fill the post, which he wishes to fulfil with the required level of professionalism and sensitivity.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)