A request filed with President Reuven Rivlin to pardon Rabbi Yoshiyahu Pinto has been declined. The rabbi is serving a one-year prison term as per the plea bargain agreement signed with the prosecution. The President announced he is acting in line with the recommendation of the Ministry of Justice, not to grant the pardon.

The request was filed two months after Rabbi Pinto entered prison, citing his medical condition and need for chemotherapy. The Israel Prison Authority has stated it is capable of meeting Rabbi Pinto’s medical needs however, the rabbi’s chassidim insist his condition continues to deteriorate due to his imprisonment.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)