JERUSALEM (VINnews) – Former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef on Saturday criticized Israeli authorities over efforts to enforce military service requirements on ultra-Orthodox men, claiming the policies have harmed Israel’s standing with President Donald Trump.

Speaking during his weekly lesson, Yosef said Torah study provides protection for Israel and argued that pressure on yeshiva students has contributed to tensions with the United States. He singled out Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, accusing her of promoting tougher measures against ultra-Orthodox draft evaders and religious institutions.

Yosef also condemned what he described as excessive police actions against haredi protesters, while acknowledging that not all police officers share those views.

Despite his criticism, Yosef said the Israeli public is fundamentally united and praised the character of the nation, expressing confidence in the strength and resilience of the Jewish people.