With Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman demanding Rabbi Yigal Levinstein step down from his co-leadership of Yeshivat Bnei David, the rosh yeshiva, Rabbi Eli Sadan speaks out, stating he will not cooperate with a dictatorship.

Rav Sadan founded the yeshiva located in Yishuv Eli with Rabbi Levinstein almost three decades ago. Together, they have molded many of the IDF finest officers, infusing a spirit of patriotism and that serving in the IDF is an unparalleled mitzvah.

Sadan, an Israel Prize recipient, does not appear overly concerned following Lieberman’s threat. He already told Defense Ministry representatives contrary to Lieberman’s demands, Rav Levinstein will remain in the yeshiva at his side.

Walla News quotes portions of the dialogue that took place during that meeting. Rav Sadan is quoted clarifying, that he has absolutely no intention of carrying out the terms of the Defense Minister’s ultimatum, stating “I will not cooperate with a dictatorship”.

The meeting was called in order to permit the Defense Ministry officials understand the yeshiva and determine if Rabbi Levinstein plans to comply with the ultimatum, which Rav Sadan rejected outright. Walla adds that “This is a spin”, explaining the Defense Ministry’s ability to economically harm the yeshiva is “minimal at best”.

In addition, Rav Sadan is among liberal dati leumi rabbonim who signed a declaration opposing religious soldiers serving in mixed unit. Also signed to that proclamation if the head of Rabbanei Tzohar, Rabbi David Stav.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)