“There is a harsh decree upon us — Torah scholars — a terrible and difficult decree. Jews are persecuting Jews because of Torah study. Tragically, we find ourselves amid this decree.”
He continued: “The difficult reality we face is a decree of exile, but confronting it is a test from God. Our duty as one people is to stand firm in this test, like a solid rock, and not yield to the authorities’ attempts to conscript Torah scholars. Anyone arrested by them must not give in or be tempted in any way to join the army.”
Rabbi Landau emphasized: “Those who study God’s Torah and walk in its ways represent true Judaism. We declare openly: it is unacceptable for a Jew to be imprisoned for Torah study. The Torah is the protector of the Jewish community, and studying it is the very foundation of Jewish life in Israel. Without Torah, Jews have no rightful claim to the land, and those who dedicate themselves to Torah safeguard the Jewish people.”
Rabbi Dov Landau visits arrested draft dodgers
He concluded: “We will not rest until the authorities release Torah scholars and allow us to study as we have since the beginning of Jewish governance in the land.”
About a week and a half ago, the 95-year-old rabbi visited the military prison in Beit Lid to meet yeshiva students detained for failing to report to the draft office, following directives from leading ultra-Orthodox rabbis. Speaking to close aides, Rabbi Landau said he could not sleep while students were imprisoned “for the sin” of studying Torah.
During the visit, he checked on the detainees and encouraged them. “I am a bit old; it is a little hard for me, but I came anyway to see you and strengthen you. I wish you a speedy return to the yeshiva. Stand strong, courageous, and do not be swayed by their temptations. Lies and falsehoods cannot overcome you,” he said.
The IDF later acknowledged that the rabbi’s entry into the military prison occurred without proper authorization, describing it as a procedural error. Officials said a thorough investigation had been conducted and that future prison visit protocols would be enforced fairly and fully to prevent such incidents.
