JERUSALEM (VINnews) – Rabbi Avraham Yosef, the son of former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, condemned a growing haircut trend in Israel in which men shave off their sidelocks, or peyot, saying the practice violates Jewish law.

Speaking on Kol Chai radio Sunday, Rabbi Yosef said the trend had become increasingly common among Israeli barbers and customers.

“I look to the right and to the left at all the barbers of various kinds — and my heart aches,” he said.

Rabbi Yosef said the responsibility does not fall solely on barbers, arguing that those requesting the haircuts also bear responsibility.

He described the practice as a severe religious violation and cited Leviticus 19:27, which prohibits shaving the corners of the head and beard.

Rabbi Yosef said Jewish law requires enough hair to remain on the sidelocks to be grasped by hand. Removing the hair entirely, he said, constitutes a biblical prohibition.

He urged parents and religious Jews to raise awareness about the issue and encourage maintaining a traditional Jewish appearance.