Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Yerushalayim HaRav Aryeh Stern spoke of the case involving Issam Akel, who sold land to Jews and has since been incarcerated in the PA (Palestinian Authority). Rav Stern feels that obtaining his release is comparable to the mitzva of redeeming a Jew, pidyon shvuyim, being held by non-Jews. In addition, the rav points out assisting in getting him released is a component of Yishuv Haaretz. The rav’s letter was published in the Yisrael Hayom newspaper.

The report states the letter was sent by the rav to Lt.-Colonel (reserves) Baruch Yedid, who heads the minority unit in Im Tirtzu, and he explains it is a mitzvah to act towards obtaining his release, comparable to working towards the release of a Jew held by gentiles, and therefore, an aspect of pidyon shvuyim too.

In response to the article in the newspaper, Yedid responded: “This is a move of national and historical significance, a courageous step on the part of the significant rabbi and state official from the rabbinical establishment, for the first intervenes for the benefit of Palestinians who have become a target hunted by hunters in the PA in the capital”.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)