Once again the High Court of Justice has interfered and is casting its left-wing philosophy on the decision-makers, freezing the appointment of Rabbi Yair Karim as the new IDF Chief Rabbi. The High Court handed down its decision on Monday, 20 Cheshvan, announcing the appointment is on hold until such time Rabbi Karim submits a statement to the court retracting his position regarding a number of piskei halacha that do not find favor with the left-wing and irreligious camps. The rav was to assume his new post this week.

The decision by the court follows Chief of Personnel Branch Major-General Chaggai Tupolinsky approving the appointment, which was then approved by IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gadi Eizenkott.

The non-frum community was up in arms about a psak written by the rav about a decade ago pertaining to ‘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.

Angry responses to the court’s interference and decision were heard from the Forum of IDF Rabbonim, MK (Bayit Yehudi) Betzalel Smotrich, Minister (Bayit Yehudi) Uri Ariel, MK (Bayit Yehudi) Moti Yogev, a retired IDF colonel as well.

Ariel calls on Rav Karim not to retract a single word, explaining “today it is you and tomorrow it will be all of us”, citing he is a rav and has ruled and does not and should not have to seek or request the court’s approval.

Tzohar Rabbonim stated “The Tzohar Rabbinical Council expressed its opposition to the statement of the Israeli Supreme Court regarding the appointment of Rabbi Eyal Karim to the position of Chief Rabbi of the IDF:

“The role of a rabbi in Israel is to adjudicate based on his insights and knowledge of Torah matters. The decision of who to appoint as IDF Chief Rabbi should not be based on where he lives or his personal opinions. In our judgement, it would be prudent for the Supreme Court to review any intent to nullify his appointment”.

It is reported that the ceremony to instill Rabbi Karim, which was to be held later in the week, is not going to be canceled, but it will take place as planned.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)