Japan Saga ClosedDear Yidden,
The sad saga of three Yeshiva Bochurim Jailed in Japan finally came to an end today with Yaakov Yosef's homecoming.
After a painfully long four and a half years, the last of the three bochurim, Yakov Yosef ben Reisel, who was recently transferred to Eretz Yisroel, was finally released from custody today, after serving 1,734 days, most of which were spent in isolation in Chiba, Japan.
Last month Yakov Yosef was brought before a parole board, and bechasdei H-ashem he was granted a full and final release on 1st January.
He was also allowed a taste of freedom on the first day of Chanuka when he was able to spend 12 hours with his family and friends.
Shortly after noon, earlier today 19th Teves 5773 (01 January '13), Yakov Yosef was met by his family at the Nitzan prison, who accompanied him and his few belongings on his trip home.
During the short time that Yakov Yosef spent at the Nitzan prison, fellow prisoners who got to know him were overwhelmed with his conduct and said that they would greatly miss him.
Yakov Yosef arranged a minyan twice daily, and delivered a shiur to the prisoners every evening after maariv. The prison shul hadn't functioned for over three years, with the exception of services on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kipur. However, after Yakov Yosef's arrival to the facility, yiddishkeit behind bars was revived. Many prisoners were inspired by Yakov Yosef, who bechasdei H-ashem, during the short time spent there, managed to change the atmosphere in the jail.
Yakov Yosef's grandfather is making a s'eudas hodoah for the whole family and close friends.
At this junction, we thank H-ashem for the great chasodim that He has done during these difficult years. Yakov Yosef has b"H unbelievably managed to sustain all the way through this difficult exile. He managed to complete several mesechtos of gemora and various sidrei halocha with many meforshim in addition to being mechazek his and our emuna and bitochon.
Yakov Yosef always managed to look at the bright side. When a threat of a sentence in excess of 20 years was looming, he rejoiced that the prosecution ultimately requested 13 years.
And when the judges handed him a verdict of six years, he rejoiced that it wasn't less, so that the prosecution shouldn't appeal.
We wish Yakov Yosef that from now on he and his dear family should see H-shems kindness in an obvious manner, and may he be zoche to bring nachas to his parents and Klal Yisroel who davened and toiled on his behalf.
Aron Nezri & Meilech Bindinger
Showing posts with label Japanese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Japanese. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Our Boys from Japan -- בחורים שלנו מיפן
Our redemption must be near! Here are great and inspiring news about Yaakov Yosef.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Yakov Yosef ben Reizel will be finally arriving home to Eretz Yisroel, יעקב יוסף בן רייזל יהיה סוף הסוף שהגיע הביתה לארץ ישראל
תכלה שנה וקללותיה
After four and a half years of trials and tribulations, isolated in his prison cell in Japan, Yakov Yosef ben Reizel is finally on his way home.
Unimaginable mountains of red tape, that until recently seemed insurmountable, hindered and delayed the prisoner transfer procedure for what seemed like eternity. Reb Aron Nezri stood at the forefront of this painstaking campaign, that has now with great siyaate dishamye come to a close. Details of the transfer were for obvious reasons kept under wraps.
As usual, Yakov Yosef has with great mesirus nefesh continued his shiurei torah diligently, and completed gomoroh masechta Shabbos just yesterday, Tuesday, when local shliach Rabbi Binyamin Edery and his family, came to pay farewell to Yakov Yosef at the Chiba Prison. Rabbi Binyamin Edery and his family have devoted unlimited care and attention to the welfare of Yakov Yosef ever since his detention.
Words cannot describe the emotions. Finally, after so many years of pain and suffering, Yakov Yosef arrived at the airport to depart from Japan.
Reb Aron Nezri (London) and Reb Meilech Bindinger (Antwerp) were on the phone with Yakov Yosef’s father (Bnei Brak), monitoring in real-time Yakov Yosef’s release from his jail compound and transfer to the immigration centre where procedures start for his transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
During the conference call whilst Yakov Yosef was at immigration, we were alerted that Yakov Yosef now had the opportunity to speak to his father for just half a minute.
For the first time in four and a half years, Yakov Yosef held a telephone to his ear, and with fervor said “Boruch Matir Asurim” to which his father emotionally answered “Amen”, whilst we shed tears of gratitude and relief.
The multitudes of concerned yiden across the globe who davened for Yakov Yosef and never ceased to forget his suffering; the thousands of our dear brethren who contributed towards the efforts to gain Yakov Yosef’s release, wrote letters of chizuk to Yakov Yosef, accepted upon themselves resolutions in Yakov Yosef’s merit, now rejoice along side his dear family.
In conformity to Japan’s stipulations, Yakov Yosef will soon be transferred to an Israeli correctional facility. He and his family will be comforted that he is now close by, and in an environment that respects his religion and speaks his tongue.
At this junction in time, we can only ask that people continue to bear Yakov Yosef ben Reizel in mind in their prayers that he should be soon unconditionally free to rejoin his family.
In the best interest of Yakov Yosef, and to avoid possible negative consequences, the team of Rabonim and askonim involved, endeavoured to keep the transfer process as low profile as possible. We apologise for not updating the tzibur on this procedure, however, our opting to confirm the good news only after Yakov Yosef was released from his cell in preparation to come home, was to circumvent damaging repercussions that past media exposure have caused.
The family of Yakov Yosef, and the askonim involved, request that respect should be given to the required discretion, and they not be contacted for further details or interviews.
כתיבה וחתימה טובה.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Tehilim for Yaakov Yosef, תהלים בשביל יעקוב יוסף
Our tears have already fallen for 4½ years, as we await the release of יעקב יוסף בן ריזל.Our tears will continue to fall until our brother
יעקב יוסף comes home.We don’t know what is holding up his transfer. We must beg the רבש"ע with our תפילות to overturn this גזירה.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Our Boy in Japan Update, בן שלנו ביפן
On Purim day, I davened to Hashem that Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel be released into freedom by Pesach 2012, I hope Hashem will answer my prayers.
Pesach, the time of redemption and freedom.
The last remaining boy in Japan, Yakov Yosef ben Reisel is hoping that he can finally celebrate his release from a Japanese prison which has been his home for almost four years.
As previously reported, there's been much correspondence between Japan and Israel, where the Japanese have been continuously raising questions on the younger boy Yossi Banda, together with many inquiries on various prisoners who were transferred from Japan in the past. The Japanese also questioned Israel’s policies regarding early release and parole proceedings and other issues regarding prisoner transfers. After the Japanese sent Israel their last official correspondence, the Israeli Ministry Of Justice sent back their response which was acknowledged by the Japanese Ministry Of Justice in mid-January. At the end of January, the Japanese wrote back to Israel; it is based on this letter that we are pinning our hopes for a Pesach release. In the letter, the Japanese wrote that they do not have any further inquiries into all matters and they are satisfied that they can now expedite the transfer of Yakov Yosef. While they did voice their displeasure at the way Israel handled the release of the younger boy Yossi, they were satisfied with the proceedings concerning Yakov Yosef's transfer which was already completed in September. They wrote that they will be working to close the file and will notify Israel when they can come and collect Yakov Yosef. Such a letter is very rare to be written by the Japanese and it is only due to internal and external pressure that they acquiesced to pen these words.
Yakov Yosef will finish serving two thirds of his sentence on 2nd April. This is an important date because according to Israeli law a prisoner is eligible for parole after he has served 2/3rds of his sentence. Due to the misunderstanding / turmoil surrounding the early release of Banda, the Japanese wanted to ensure that Yakov Yosef will at least serve 2/3rds before releasing him to Israeli hands. To be clear, the Japanese have no problem with Israel releasing Yakov Yosef or any prisoner on parole once he arrives in Israel; it is part of the international prisoner transfer treaty between Japan and many different countries and is standard procedure. The controversy that surrounded Banda was that the Japanese felt that his sentence was commuted in Israel to enable him to have already served 2/3rds of his sentence and be eligible for parole earlier than originally agreed. In Yakov Yosef's case this is now no longer applicable, as he has almost completed his two thirds and, thus, they have no problem with him being released on parole once he arrives in Israel.
Yakov Yosef is aware of his potential release and his spirits have been lifted because of it. He has had a difficult winter with freezing temperatures and I wouldn't like to say the rest! He has visitors who keep him aware of the situation. His father, who has visitation right, has been visiting him every month for the past few months and is actually there now. Yakov Yosef's spirits are B"H fine, though his spirits have been shattered from time to time. Six months ago, he thought he was going home and it didn't happen. Every day is a struggle as he deals with the potential possibility “Will I get the good news today?” .
Yakov Yosef will now not have to serve in prison in Eretz Yisroel. Even if he were to arrive in Eretz Yisroel tomorrow, the process of accepting and evaluating a prisoner takes around three weeks, by which time he would be eligible for parole and therefore will no longer enter a prison. When Yakov Yosef arrives in Eretz Yisroel, he will immediately be interviewed and go before a parole board, with a plan implemented in agreement with his family and he will be released on his parole date April 2nd.
Pesach now plays a big role and the Japanese are aware of the tense situation that lies upon all of us. An official letter was sent and we made them aware of Pesach and its significance. While every year we send Yakov Yosef matzos for Pesach, this year if it would cholila become necessary to buy matzos it would look like Erev Tisha B’Av rather than Erev Pesach. He has been there for four years in a row for Pesach already; four is enough, more than enough. If we were to have to buy him matzohs this year it would be very, very sad.
While Purim is now over and everyone is focusing on Pesach preparations, for Yakov Yosef and his family, every day is difficult. It’s a very intense, scary matzav for them, not knowing what will come and what the new day will bring. If any news occurs, we will be notified immediately and we will in turn notify the public.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO DAVEN FOR YAKOV YOSEF BEN REISEL!!
Be'Nissan nigalu ubeNissan asidim lehigoel, may H-shem redeem all of us very soon.
Regards, Aron Nezri
Pesach, the time of redemption and freedom.
The last remaining boy in Japan, Yakov Yosef ben Reisel is hoping that he can finally celebrate his release from a Japanese prison which has been his home for almost four years.
As previously reported, there's been much correspondence between Japan and Israel, where the Japanese have been continuously raising questions on the younger boy Yossi Banda, together with many inquiries on various prisoners who were transferred from Japan in the past. The Japanese also questioned Israel’s policies regarding early release and parole proceedings and other issues regarding prisoner transfers. After the Japanese sent Israel their last official correspondence, the Israeli Ministry Of Justice sent back their response which was acknowledged by the Japanese Ministry Of Justice in mid-January. At the end of January, the Japanese wrote back to Israel; it is based on this letter that we are pinning our hopes for a Pesach release. In the letter, the Japanese wrote that they do not have any further inquiries into all matters and they are satisfied that they can now expedite the transfer of Yakov Yosef. While they did voice their displeasure at the way Israel handled the release of the younger boy Yossi, they were satisfied with the proceedings concerning Yakov Yosef's transfer which was already completed in September. They wrote that they will be working to close the file and will notify Israel when they can come and collect Yakov Yosef. Such a letter is very rare to be written by the Japanese and it is only due to internal and external pressure that they acquiesced to pen these words.
Yakov Yosef will finish serving two thirds of his sentence on 2nd April. This is an important date because according to Israeli law a prisoner is eligible for parole after he has served 2/3rds of his sentence. Due to the misunderstanding / turmoil surrounding the early release of Banda, the Japanese wanted to ensure that Yakov Yosef will at least serve 2/3rds before releasing him to Israeli hands. To be clear, the Japanese have no problem with Israel releasing Yakov Yosef or any prisoner on parole once he arrives in Israel; it is part of the international prisoner transfer treaty between Japan and many different countries and is standard procedure. The controversy that surrounded Banda was that the Japanese felt that his sentence was commuted in Israel to enable him to have already served 2/3rds of his sentence and be eligible for parole earlier than originally agreed. In Yakov Yosef's case this is now no longer applicable, as he has almost completed his two thirds and, thus, they have no problem with him being released on parole once he arrives in Israel.
Yakov Yosef is aware of his potential release and his spirits have been lifted because of it. He has had a difficult winter with freezing temperatures and I wouldn't like to say the rest! He has visitors who keep him aware of the situation. His father, who has visitation right, has been visiting him every month for the past few months and is actually there now. Yakov Yosef's spirits are B"H fine, though his spirits have been shattered from time to time. Six months ago, he thought he was going home and it didn't happen. Every day is a struggle as he deals with the potential possibility “Will I get the good news today?” .
Yakov Yosef will now not have to serve in prison in Eretz Yisroel. Even if he were to arrive in Eretz Yisroel tomorrow, the process of accepting and evaluating a prisoner takes around three weeks, by which time he would be eligible for parole and therefore will no longer enter a prison. When Yakov Yosef arrives in Eretz Yisroel, he will immediately be interviewed and go before a parole board, with a plan implemented in agreement with his family and he will be released on his parole date April 2nd.
Pesach now plays a big role and the Japanese are aware of the tense situation that lies upon all of us. An official letter was sent and we made them aware of Pesach and its significance. While every year we send Yakov Yosef matzos for Pesach, this year if it would cholila become necessary to buy matzos it would look like Erev Tisha B’Av rather than Erev Pesach. He has been there for four years in a row for Pesach already; four is enough, more than enough. If we were to have to buy him matzohs this year it would be very, very sad.
While Purim is now over and everyone is focusing on Pesach preparations, for Yakov Yosef and his family, every day is difficult. It’s a very intense, scary matzav for them, not knowing what will come and what the new day will bring. If any news occurs, we will be notified immediately and we will in turn notify the public.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO DAVEN FOR YAKOV YOSEF BEN REISEL!!
Be'Nissan nigalu ubeNissan asidim lehigoel, may H-shem redeem all of us very soon.
Regards, Aron Nezri
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Jews in the eyes of a Japanese, היהודים בעיני היפנית
I just read a very inspiring article from a Japanese woman who spent her life exploring Jewish history and she has a message to say about Jews:
Asked what she admired most about Jews and their survival instinct, Muraoka said, “It’s the concept of peoplehood — that all Jews are responsibly for one another. It’s a loyalty that goes beyond country, or family history, or specific religious practice. All of Israel is one. I find that extremely special.”Even though Ms. Muraoka experienced discrimination as a lone Oriental in a waspy Anglo country like New Zealand and identified with anti-Semitism through this, well, unfortunately, she is not aware that there is also anti-Oriental sentiments against Jewish converts and their children who are Asian/Oriental in a country like Israel, as experienced by some olim, not to mention discrimination among Sephardi and Ashkenazi, Chiloni and Charedim, and what have you. This discrimination is much less so in the Diaspora where Jews of all stripes identify with each other, since it is a battle against anti-semitism "It's us or them (anti-semitic gentiles)." However, in Israel, we have too many Jews who instead of embracing one another, turn against one another. Only terrorism unites the Israeli Jews (among themselves) and between Israeli and Diaspora Jews (because down deep inside, we do care about each other!). Go figure!
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Yaakov Yosef ben Razel in Japan (UPDATE)
Below is a report from Rabbi Aron Nezri on the status of Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel:
CHIBA, Japan – The saga of Yakov Yosef Grunwald may be nearing its end, as a letter from the Japanese Ministry of Justice indicates they will now go on to the final chapter and will shortly notify of the release date where he will be transferred to Israel to officially serve the remainder of his six-year sentence in Israel.
The latest communication from the Japanese chided Israel for not abiding by the prisoner transfer agreement with previous prisoners but indicated they will release Yakov Yosef shortly.
Basically, they are satisfied that everything is OK and they will now be dealing with the conclusion of this matter, and that they will, without giving any dates, decide on a timeline for collecting Yakov Yosef.
In the nine months since Yakov Yosef’s appeal was rejected in the High Court in May 2011, his askonim and legal team had been concerned that the lengthy stay indicated the Japanese were reluctant to release him before completing his two thirds of his sentence. But the Japanese missive explained that they were upset that Israel had released the youngest of the 3 bochurim before he even finished serving two thirds of his sentence as required by Israeli law, and in addition they miscalculated the sentences of previous transferred prisoners. Israel had discounted a third of all sentences, including the number of days the prisoner was supposed to serve in lieu of payment of a fine. That amounts to an extra day for every 10,000 Yen owed.
These extra days, called “working days” as opposed to the regular “serving days,” may not be discounted for good behavior, something Israel had been doing until now.
They asked Israel that from now on they should not do this anymore. Israel has as well in response sent an apology in relation to the release of the youngest of the three boys, Yossi, who was released before finishing his two thirds that has caused the major delay in transferring Yakov Yosef. Its is clear that Yakov Yosef was the one to pay a heavy price for that.
Japan has hinted broadly already in the past that they wanted Yakov Yosef to serve at least two thirds of his sentence in Japan before transferring him. That date will be reached on April 2, according to the most lenient interpretation of the law.
But the Japanese have no problem sticking toward that version. I now expect that during March they will send a final reply, and in that final reply they will tell the Israelis to come to collect him. That will be at the end of March or the beginning of April.” As we are now only a month before the end of Yakov Yosef's two thirds, on his arrival to Israel, Yakov Yosef will now not enter a prison at all, but instead will come immediately before a parole board where he will be released very shortly after. He will be kept under some sort of detention until the release has been ordered. This procedure will hopefully be rushed and completed in days.
The other two bachurim arrested together with Yakov Yosef are already back in Israel. Yossi Bando has been out on parole since Jan of 2011, and Yoel Zev Goldstein was acquitted in August.
Please continue to daven for Yakov Yosef ben Reizel for his quick and safe transfer back to home.
CHIBA, Japan – The saga of Yakov Yosef Grunwald may be nearing its end, as a letter from the Japanese Ministry of Justice indicates they will now go on to the final chapter and will shortly notify of the release date where he will be transferred to Israel to officially serve the remainder of his six-year sentence in Israel.
The latest communication from the Japanese chided Israel for not abiding by the prisoner transfer agreement with previous prisoners but indicated they will release Yakov Yosef shortly.
Basically, they are satisfied that everything is OK and they will now be dealing with the conclusion of this matter, and that they will, without giving any dates, decide on a timeline for collecting Yakov Yosef.
In the nine months since Yakov Yosef’s appeal was rejected in the High Court in May 2011, his askonim and legal team had been concerned that the lengthy stay indicated the Japanese were reluctant to release him before completing his two thirds of his sentence. But the Japanese missive explained that they were upset that Israel had released the youngest of the 3 bochurim before he even finished serving two thirds of his sentence as required by Israeli law, and in addition they miscalculated the sentences of previous transferred prisoners. Israel had discounted a third of all sentences, including the number of days the prisoner was supposed to serve in lieu of payment of a fine. That amounts to an extra day for every 10,000 Yen owed.
These extra days, called “working days” as opposed to the regular “serving days,” may not be discounted for good behavior, something Israel had been doing until now.
They asked Israel that from now on they should not do this anymore. Israel has as well in response sent an apology in relation to the release of the youngest of the three boys, Yossi, who was released before finishing his two thirds that has caused the major delay in transferring Yakov Yosef. Its is clear that Yakov Yosef was the one to pay a heavy price for that.
Japan has hinted broadly already in the past that they wanted Yakov Yosef to serve at least two thirds of his sentence in Japan before transferring him. That date will be reached on April 2, according to the most lenient interpretation of the law.
But the Japanese have no problem sticking toward that version. I now expect that during March they will send a final reply, and in that final reply they will tell the Israelis to come to collect him. That will be at the end of March or the beginning of April.” As we are now only a month before the end of Yakov Yosef's two thirds, on his arrival to Israel, Yakov Yosef will now not enter a prison at all, but instead will come immediately before a parole board where he will be released very shortly after. He will be kept under some sort of detention until the release has been ordered. This procedure will hopefully be rushed and completed in days.
The other two bachurim arrested together with Yakov Yosef are already back in Israel. Yossi Bando has been out on parole since Jan of 2011, and Yoel Zev Goldstein was acquitted in August.
Please continue to daven for Yakov Yosef ben Reizel for his quick and safe transfer back to home.
Join a massive tehillim tehillim tele-conference for ladies, this Sunday, February 5 at 9:00 p.m. Call 718-258-2008 option 9 selection 1 to participate. See attached document for details.
Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel, the name that has been on our lips, in our minds, hearts and tefillos, has been in prison for almost four years - 46 months. The image of a Japanese jail cell, the hunger, cold, loneliness and pain is one of intense fear for all of us. Yet, for one boy this is not an image, it is his reality, and it has been for so long. The Askonim involved, together with the support of Klal Yisroel worldwide, have moved heaven and earth trying to ease Yaakov Yosef’s living conditions as well as to expedite his transfer to Erets Yisroel. Unfortunately, the transfer is taking much longer than expected, due to Japan’s scrutiny of past prisoners’ transfer and the terms of their transfers. Before Japan releases Yaakov Yosef, the government is investigating Israel’s policies toward transferred prisoners. Every time the Japanese government sends a question to Israel, the Israeli government must research and answer the question, and this is a lengthy and tedious process. Yaakov Yosef’s bags are packed, his papers are processed and he is ready to leave at a moments notice. The continuous questions by the Japanese government are holding up the transfer. We, his brothers worldwide, can do what Yidden have done throughout the ages, to create a change across the world. By opening our hearts and davening for Yaakov Yosef, we can expedite his transfer. Please join the tehillim tele-conference for ladies this Sunday, Feb 5 at 9 pm.
Please call 718-250-2008 option 9 selection 1.
May he see his yeshua soon.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Our Boys in Japan (UPDATE)
This Chanukah, please remember Yaakov "Yosef" ben Raizel, parahas Miketz, and cry out to Hakadosh Baruch Hu, to redeem him. Tizku l'Mitzvos!
======================================================================
Below is a message from R' Meilich Bindinger and R' Aron Nezri:
Below is a message from R' Meilich Bindinger and R' Aron Nezri.
CURRENT STATUS OF YAAKOV YOSEF BEN RAIZEL
The dramatic close to this chapter doesn’t bring an end to the Japan saga,
as Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel remains imprisoned. Efforts to maintain Yaakov
Yosef's status at the Chiba Detention Center until his transfer to Israel
have been productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one-third of the full sentence can be
deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their
discretion.
Yaakov Yosef could, therefore, with the help of Hashem, be released from
prison within a few months from now. Efforts are well underway towards
expediting his return home to Eretz Yisroel. All are asked to continue being
mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
Yakov Yosef showed great self-sacrifice when chosing to appeal the initial
verdict he received at the District Court. Most convictions in Japan are not
appealed at a higher court. One of the primary reasons why Yakov Yosef opted
to appeal – in consultation with daas torah - was to demonstrate
unequivocally his claim of innocence, thereby hoping to influence the
mindset of Yoel Zev’s judges when perceiving him as an accomplice. (Not
appealing is – in Japan – an indication of accepting guilt.)
If not for the protracted appeal procedure, Yakov Yosef would be now already
serving time in an Israeli prison.
During the preparations of the appeal trial, several new element of defense
surfaced, additional expert witnesses were brought to Japan, and further
emphasis was placed on the unethical blindeye being given to the polygraph
examination results.
The Judges of Yoel Zev agreed to adopt most of the new defence materials
that were introduced and accepted by the judges at Yakov Yosef’s appeal
trial.
We are grateful to Yakov Yosef’s altruism, at the cost of his own comfort.
May Ha-shem repay him with a ישועה בקרוב.
In deep gratitude of Yakov Yosef's mesirus nefesh, Yoel Zev paid a visit to
Yakov Yosef's family in Bnei Brak, today Wednesday. Yakov Yosef's family
prepared a festive l'chaim in honour of Yoel Zev's release. Yoel Zev thanked
Yakov Yosef's family for the tremendous הקרבה Yakov Yosef had shown to help
his friend.
-Meilech Bindinger
MAZEL TOV !!!
Japan Update: At 21:50 Israeli time, Yoel Zev arrived at Ben Gurion airport
terminal 3, on flight KE957 via SEOUL.
Dear All,
I can now confirm that Yoel Zev is b"h airborne.
We were nervous in the half hour prior to flight departure. Yoel Zev had not
arrived yet at the boarding gate. After some frantic high-level phone calls
it was confirmed to us that he is checked-in, albeit not yet to be seen.
Approximately 5 minutes before scheduled departure time, Yoel Zev arrived at
the aircraft and boarded alongside Aron Nezri who was agitatedly awaiting
his arrival.
Aron passed his cell phone to Yoel Zev. We conversed for a few brief
moments. I was so relieved that this moment had arrived and elated to hear
Yoel Zev's voice.
Some quotes from our conversation (translated from Yiddish):
Me: Yoel Zev, you got us real nervous, coming so late..., where
were you?
Yoel Zev: I arrived to the airport at 8am. I was held at the immigration
detention cell where I davened Shachris, and I was only taken a few minutes
ago to the flight, where I boarded together with Aron (Nezri).
Me: It's absolutely amazing to speak to you now, sitting on the
airplane heading home. With a 99.8% conviction rate in Japan, your acquittal
was against all odds. An absolute miracle. How do we thank enough?
Yoel Zev: (emotionally) Boruch Matir Asurim. In a time of yeshuas
H-ashem, the gates of heaven are wide open, It is now an auspicious time to
daven for my friend Yakov Yosef ben Reizel who remains in Japan and awaits
salvation.
Yoel Zev: I'm now about to eat the first certified kosher food since I
arrived in Japan three and a half years ago. Boruch Atah ... Shehakol
Niheyeh Bodvoroi.
Background: Please turn off all mechanical devices ...
I can also confirm receiving a photograph of Yoel Zev, aboard the home bound
flight, smiling contentedly, with a sefer on his armrest.
May we be zoche to always share besuros tovois.
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
Yoel Zev is on his way to the airport ב"ה ב"ה ב"ה
בס"ד
Dear Yidden around the world;
חסדי ד' כי לא תמנו:
Monday 29th August:
After our report (29.08), that the Chiba District Court ruled in favour of
the defense, and handed down a full acquittal ב"ה for Yoel Zev נ"י, we were
still pensive and unsure whether the Prosecution Office would appeal the
‘non guilty’ verdict at the Tokyo High Court.
The prosecution office had 14 days in which they could do so.
The tzibur were asked to continue to be mispallel for Yoel Zev ben Mirel
Risa Chava, for his safe return home.
As explained previously, immediately after the court session was adjourned,
immigration officials took Yoel Zev into their custody on account of
overstaying his 90-day visa in 2008.
With abated breath, delicate efforts began to determine the stance of the
prosecution, and to convey a legal insistence to the Tokyo High Court to
abstain from accepting any plea attempt.
Likewise, the defence attorneys prepared a petition against detention, to be
immediately submitted to the High Court in the event that an appeal is
filed.
Based on the magnitude of the case and the large amount of compelling
evidence, we sincerely hope that the Prosecution Office will decide not to
appeal. The Prosecution Office tend to shy away from appealing a verdict
which they suspect would prove difficult to overturn. In Japan, losing an
appeal is deemed an embarrassment. Additionally, Judge Hadoko who handed
down the ‘non guilty’ verdict is one of Japans elite judges. This could mean
that it is too big a challenge to try to overturn his verdict. The High
prosecution office know him well, and would not try to slap him in the face
when there's a chance of losing.
Feverish Preparations
Tuesday 30th August:
8 am: An explanation stating the cause of Yoel Zev’s delayed exit from Japan
was prepared by the legal team, and presented to the Investigation Division
at the Immigration Office.
10 am: At the Immigration Office, officers at the investigation division
opened a file for the deportation of Yoel Zev and after a questioning
session, asked Yoel Zev to sign some documents.
During his detention, Yoel Zev has amassed a library of seforim and
clothing, sent to him by the askonim and his family. To avoid delays at the
airport due to excessive baggage, we removed the bulk of Yoel Zev’s
belongings from the immigration centre.
Yoel Zev נ"י has for the first time since 03 April 2008 held a telephone
conversation. We acquired several telephone cards allowing Yoel Zev to speak
freely to his family, rebbes, and friends.
Wednesday 31st August:
We understood from officers at the Immigration Office, that the
investigation phase of Yoel Zev’s deportation process was completed, and at
2 pm the report was submitted to the Decision Department. Yoel Zev was not
asked to sign any additional documents.
Thursday 1st September:
Defense attorneys contacted Decision Officers at the Immigration Centre to
ask them to furnish us with the necessary exit permit without delay.
Yoel Zev’s spirits are high and hopeful b”h.
Much red-tape is involved in the allocation of tickets, airlines consent to
carry a deportee, and appropriate travel route.
Our travel agency, based in USA, made provisional contingency plans, holding
seats on several flights to various destinations, on each day since Yoel
Zev’s acquittal, so that when the exit permit would be granted, the seats
would be immediately available.
Friday, 2nd September:
Mr Ozawa, a defence attorney, called the Immigration Office at 10am. The
decision officer told him that the decision is underway. Upon pressing for
swifter action, he was told “if you call in the afternoon my answer will be
the same!” Mr. Ozawa says this means they will not be rendering a decision
today, and they will probably give it on Monday coming.
Mr. Nakayama, a Japanese member of parliament who has befriended the
askonim, explained that since a new government is being established today,
many officials are absent due to the commotion, which in turn could be the
reason for the delay in receiving the exit permit.
Mr. Kuroda, a friend we have who is well acquainted with officials at the
Japanese Ministry of Justice, cautioned that the delay is perhaps due to the
Immigration Office having contacted the Prosecution Office to ask whether
they should release Yoel Zev.
Officers at the Immigration Office claim that there is nothing holding up
issuing the Exit Permit. They presented a chart of the procedure and showed
where they are up to now. They added that there would be no chance of
getting a decision today. Shabbos and Sunday the Immigration Office is
closed. It is hoped that on Monday they will have their decision, and send
it to the Deportation Department.
Upon the requests of MK Eli Yishai, representatives of the Israeli Embassy
held a meeting with Aron Nezri to discuss strategy, prior to their meeting
with investigation and decision officers at the Immigration Centre, and
tried to press for a Deportation Order to be issued today, Friday. However,
they explained to us that this would not be possible until Monday.
Meanwhile we have arranged backup seating available on outgoing flights on
Monday night and on Tuesday morning.
In Eretz Yisroel, the Beis Din of the Edoh Hachareidis issued a new
proclamation requesting klal yisroel to daven for the quick release of Yoel
Zev and quick transfer of Yakov Yosef.
In Japan there were ב"ה some positive indications. Yoel Zev’s passport and
some other personal belongings that were confiscated by the Prosecution
Office at the time of arrest were returned to him.
This is a good sign, but not necessarily an indication that the prosecutor
will not appeal. The defense attorneys advised that although the prosecutor
cannot hold on to an acquitted subjects personal belongings; nevertheless it
is still a positive sign. We remain cautious.
On another note, Japan appointed a new Justice Minister on Friday. He
announced that he would not sign any death penalties.
After consulting with leading poskim, Yoel Zev was instructed to sign any
release papers presented to him on Shabbos. Similarly, Yoel Zev was allowed
to travel on Shabbos if the need would arise.
Shabbos - Sunday, 3rd - 4th September:
A sholom zochor was held on Shabbos at the home of Chabad Shliach Rabbi
Binyomin Edery for the birth of his newborn son. The Bris Milah took place
on Sunday. The baby was named “Nissim Ariel”; Nissim in commemoration of
Yoel Zev’s sudden - and to many also unexpected - acquittal. A few guests
from Los Angeles had come for shabbos to take part in the bris.
On Sunday, Typhoon Talas swept through west Japan, this affecting many
inbound and outgoing flights.
Monday 5th September:
As on every day, Aron Nezri visited Yoel Zev at 9 am together with a defence
attorney, to clarify the status of the procedure and guide Yoel Zev further.
Relief!
At 10 am the deportation order was finally issued and presented to the
deportation department for execution.
New air tickets were purchased. Scheduling of deportation escorts were put
in place.
Tickets for accompanying father and askonim were now secured.
A frenzied but fulfilling day.
Tuesday 6th September:
Flight to Freedom אי"ה:
The long awaited day has finally arrived, 6th September 2011, Tuesday
morning in Japan, Yoel Zev will all being well be allowed to travel home.
Security personnel from the deportation division of the Immigration Centre
will escort Yoel Zev from the Tokyo Immigration Centre to the Narita
International Airport. At the airport, he will be detained in an immigration
cell until the boarding time of his flight out of Japan.
After all passengers have already boarded, Yoel Zev will be brought to the
door of the aircraft flanked by two officials from the Tokyo Immigration
Office.
Once Yoel Zev boards the aircraft he is a free man, and once airborne we’re
sure he will taste the freedom that we have all longed for.
May we all be zoche to חירות עולם with the coming of משיח בב"א.
Contrary to some rumours, no country seeks extradition of Yoel Zev.
Together with Yoel Zev on the flight will be, his father, Aron Nezri who has
carefully coordinated the immigration procedures, and a friend of the family
who has spent many months visiting the bochurim during the last three years.
Yoel Zev will be departing from Japan during the course of the morning and
is scheduled to arrive in Eretz Yisroel on Tuesday night.
We have exercised caution when selecting what kosher food Yoel Zev will eat
during his flight to freedom, after not having consumed a morsel of poultry
and meat for almost three and a half years.
Current Status of Yakov Yosef ben Reizel:
The dramatic close to this chapter doesn’t bring an end to the Japan saga.
Yakov Yosef remains imprisoned על אדמת נכר.
We have therefore planned no public celebration, eventhough the simcho and
Kiddush H-ashem would call for one, since Yakov Yosef is not yet home …
Efforts to retain Yakov Yosef's status at the Chiba detention centre until
his transfer to Israel were ב"ה productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one third of the full sentence can be
deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their
discretion.
According to this, Yakov Yosef could אי"ה be out of prison within a few
months from now.
Efforts are well underway towards expediting his return home to Eretz
Yisrael. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
In Conclusion:
On behalf of Dayan Chaim Yosef Dovid Weis of Antwerp, we have so far
dedicated three and half years to the defence efforts of the unfortunate
bochurim. We hope to soon pick up our lives from where we left off.
We are deeply grateful for the support and cooperation of:
* Attorney, Mr. Rex Beaber (Los Angeles),
* Dr. Yamamura (Osaka, Japan)
* Ex D.E.A. agent, Mr. Mike Levine (NJ, USA),
* Prof. Daniel Aldrich (West Lafayette, Indiana),
* Prof. G. Ben-Schachar (Jeruslaem),
* Prof. Sacha Stern (London),
* Rabbi M.D. Niederman (Williamsburg),
whom, amongst many others, provided expert live testimony and dissertations
to the court in defence of the bochurim, and played a major role in securing
Yoel Zev’s acquittal. An exhaustive list would be quite impossible. We are
indebted to so many.
We won’t easily forget the electrifying moment when the judges proclaimed in
Japanese “You are innocent” and the court appointed translator repeating to
Yoel Zev “אתה זכאי”.
May we all be זוכה בדין in the upcoming ימי הדין, and may we hear only
besuros toivois and simchos in our midst.
Aron Nezri, London - Currently in Tokyo, Japan
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
Please continue to daven for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Reesa Chava that he should arrive home speedily and without any obstacles.
Please continue to daven for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel who awaits his transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
Below is a first-hand report from Rabbis Aron Nezri and Meilich Bindiger from Tokyo, Japan. We must continue to daven for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Risa Chava that he should arrive home smoothly and safely, and for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel to be transferred to Eretz Yisroel. For more details or to donate, visit www.japanpidyon.org .
Dear Yidden around the world;
חסדי ד':
Bechasdei Shomayim, we and the defence attorneys are glad to report that the Chiba District Court ruled in favour of the defense, and handed down a full acquittal ב"ה for Yoel Zev נ"י.
Immediately upon hearing this good news, we exited the court room for a few moments, to convey the besuro tovah to the multitudes of Acheinu Bnei Yisroel who were waiting in suspense for the outcome.
Upon hearing the judges verdict we were choked with emotion and couldn't elaborate. We can now, after closing of the court session, provide more details of what transpired today, try and reflect on the chasodim geluim, and pray for further siyata d’shmaya.
Justice Prevails:
We congratulate the Japanese Judiciary for diligently seeking the truth, and carefully analysing the many diverse element of defense, - many of which are new concepts to the Japanese - and thereby succeeded in delivering the long awaited innocent verdict.
Prior to Court Session:
Ten minutes before the court session commenced, the leading defence attorney accompanied us to visit Yoel Zev at a meeting room under the court house. Through a glass pane we could communicate with Yoel Zev. It was difficult moments. We didn’t know what words can be said. Looming ahead was G-d forbid a possible guilty verdict of a 15 years prison sentence in addition to a penalty of ¥5,000,000.00 (equating to $65,000.00).
After having experienced the disappointment of the verdicts handed to the two other bochurim, Yossi and Yakov Yosef, it was challenging to find the right words of encouragement.
(Yossi, the only juvenile of the three, received a sentence of 5 years, which was what the prosecution had requested from the Judges. Yossi has since been transferred to Israel, where his sentence was commuted under conditions and supervision of the Israeli prison authority.
Yakov Yosef, the younger of the two adult bochurim, received a 6 year prison sentence from the 13 years demanded by the prosecution. He is pending transfer to Israel. The transfer procedure is well underway.)
What can one say to Yoel Zev moments before his verdict, after having faced the fact that his two friends were handed a guilty verdict?
We tried our best to prepare him for every eventuality, carefully using only positive quotes of Emunah and Bitachon, and hoping and praying for the best.
We were most relieved by Yoel Zev’s attitude. Yoel Zev said in his innocent manner: “I don’t know what the material judge will tell us today, but the celestial Judge, shofet kol ho’oretz, will certainly rule innocent”.
Court Session:
Upon the judges’ entry to the court room, and the customary Japanese bows, the Judge summoned Yoel Zev, using his first name 'Yoel' - uncommon in Japanese courts formalities - and asked him to stand at the pulpit directly in front of the judges.
The judge immediately announced – in Japanese - the verdict: “You are innocent”. Our personal translator, sitting alongside us, quickly told us in jubilation the courts verdict. The court appointed translator then translated to Yoel Zev “Atah Zakai”. Upon hearing these words, Yoel Zev’s father, ourselves, and other yidden with us, shed tears of jubilation. The relief is indescribable.
Basis of Verdict:
The judge then went on to expound his verdict in detail, on the basis of the defense material, explaining how he concluded his judgment, finding Yoel Zev to be ‘not guilty’.
(Visit www.japanpidyon.org for details.)
Closing of Session:
The presiding Judge then apologised – in the name of the Ministry of Justice – for the protracted trial procedure, mentioning that he was sorry that it had taken from April 2008 until August 2011 to deliver the innocent verdict.
At the court room today was present the father of Yoel Zev, whom after the judges left the court room, in an emotionally charged atmosphere, immediately recited the brocho one hears upon learning of good tidings, “Hatoiv vehametiv”.
This was followed by a quick succession of handshakes and congratulations between Yoel Zev, the defence attorneys, the askonim, and on looking well wishers.
Yoel Zev was then escorted from the court room flanked by two officials from the Tokyo Immigration Office.
Post Trial Procedures:
We accompanied the leading defense attorney to the Chiba Detention Center to try to meet with Yoel Zev and to guide him on the procedures to follow, however we were pleasantly surprised to learn that we could no longer obtain an audience with him at Chiba since he is immediately being transferred, with all his belongings (clothing and seforim) to the Tokyo Immigration detention centre.
In line with standing practice, immigration officials have taken Yoel Zev into their custody on account of overstaying his 90-day visa in 2008. An explanation to the immigration office stating the cause of Yoel Zev’s delayed exit from Japan was prepared by the legal team, and handed to Yoel Zev this morning (before the verdict), in hope of this eventuality. Attorneys are hopeful this matter will be rectified in an expeditious fashion and that he will be able to leave the country without further delay.
The prosecution office has 14 days in which they could to appeal at the Tokyo High Court the district court’s decision to release Yoel Zev.
The choshuve tzibur are asked to continue to be mispallel for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Risa Chava, for his safe return home.
The efforts to achieve today’s verdict were a culmination of so many kind hearted Yidden, across a broad spectrum, at the helm, Dayan Chid”o Weis of Antwerp, Hagras”h Wosner Shlita, Munkatcher Rebbe Shlita, HaRav Grossman of Midal Emek, Rabbi Y D Bleich of Kiev, Rabbi B Edery of Tokyo, and lhvbchlc”h Rabbi Aba Dunner z”l, among many other Rabonim, dignitaries, professors, lawyers, and activists from within the Jewish community. An exhaustive list would be appropriate but quite impossible. We are indebted to them all.
Current Status of Yakov Yosef ben Reizel:
Efforts to retain Yakov Yosef's status at the Chiba detention centre until his transfer to Israel were b”h productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one third of the full sentence can be deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their discretion.
According to this, Yakov Yosef could be out of prison within a few months from now.
Efforts are well underway towards expediting his return home to Eretz Yisrael. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
May we hear only besuros toivois,
Aron Nezri, London
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
Currently in Tokyo, Japan
Bechasdai Hashem Yoel Zev was found innocent!! We must continue to daven that everything goes smoothly.
Please continue to daven for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel as he awaits a transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
Verdict for Yoel Zev to be announced!
The final verdict for Yoel Zev Ben Mirel Risa Chava is scheduled to be announced Monday, August 29th, 1:30 PM Tokyo time (Sunday night 12:30AM EST).
All are urged to daven and donate as a z'chus for the boys.
Please continue to daven for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Reesa Chava and Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel.
For a full update or to donate visit www.japanpidyon.org
Call 718-534-0030
Two months have already passed since May 16th, the fateful day in which the Tokyo High Court denied the appeal of Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel and upheld the guilty verdict handed down by the Chiba District Court. Although the plight of the two boys imprisoned in Japan has largely been out of the public spotlight during these two months, efforts by the askonim on their behalf have been far from quiet.
As we reported at the time of the verdict, there is a prisoner transfer agreement in place between Japan and Israel, and thus, according to Japanese law, a prisoner legally need not be held even one day in Japan but can be transferred to his own country. The reality however, is far different. Transfers usually take a long time to actually take place, as was the case with Yossi, the youngest of the three boys who were arrested at Narita International Airport over three years ago.
With Yaakov Yosef, who is not a minor, time was of the essence as he was in the very real danger of being sent to a harsh prison labor camp where, aside from the great physical suffering he would have to endure, he would be unable to perform even basic mitzvos such as keeping Shabbos, wearing tefillin, etc. Askonim had no time to waste and immediately set to work setting the transfer process in motion, accomplishing in four weeks what usually takes several months’ time to put into place.
One of the askonim has returned from Japan two weeks ago where certain matters of bureaucracy and red tape were settled.
The initial step was for Yaakov Yosef to sign a waiver to any further appeal. Since Yaakov Yosef knew that once he signed this document he would officially be considered a prisoner of the State and would no longer be allowed visitors on a daily basis as he had been previously receiving, he waited until his father left a week after the trial to sign the document so that he would be able to see him as often as possible until his departure.
Complications also arose due to the fact that the appeal had taken place in the Tokyo district but the detainee was being held in the Chiba district. Thus, important documents needed to close the case were sent back and forth between the Tokyo High court, the Tokyo High Prosecutors Office, the Chiba District Prosecutor’s Office, and the detention centre. The lawyers and askonim were kept very busy applying pressure to any and all parties involved, and succeeded greatly in accelerating the process at a speed as yet unprecedented in any such cases. The argument was that due to the detainee being held in the Chiba Prefecture, it falls under the Chiba’s Prosecution Office’s jurisdiction. The Chiba Prosecutors Office claimed that the case was dealt with by the Tokyo High Court and was taken over by the Tokyo Prosecutors Office, and therefore they are responsible for the case. This case was very unusual, as all detainees attending trial in Tokyo are transferred to the Tokyo detention centre, but in this particular case, as mentioned in the past, a special request was made to keep Yakov Yosef at the detention centre in Chiba due to the special care that he gets there that he would not receive on Tokyo, and the high court judge gave a surprising ruling in Yakov Yosefs favor.
Another issue that arose was with the document that Yaakov Yosef needed to sign where he requests from the Japanese Ministry Of Justice his wish to be transferred to Israel. Yaakov Yosef’s biweekly medical checkup was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, the first day of Shavuos. During their medical examinations, the boys are allowed to make requests to the prison authorities in writing. As Yaakov Yosef knew he would be unable to write on Yom Tov, he requested that the examination be postponed. The authorities did not agree to this, and they presented to him the transfer request for signature on Yom Tov. An argument then ensued as to whether they would need to wait for the next medical exam two weeks later to have him sign the document, or whether they could come at any time to have him sign. Thankfully, he did not need to wait the two weeks and was able to sign immediately after Yom Tov. There was also disagreement as to where the bill for the fine levied on Yaakov Yosef was to be presented for payment, again having the Tokyo and Chiba Prosecution Offices throwing it at each other. At the end, it was determined that the Tokyo Prosecutors office will issue the bill and the lawyer would be allowed to pay on Yaakov Yosef’s behalf, which he did straight away.
At this time, documentary procedures both on the Japanese side and the Israeli side have been completed, and the review process is underway. Both sides need to review the documentation of the other country; i.e. the Japanese will want to know where in Israel the prisoner will be taken, at what point will he be allowed to request being released,etc. Then a contract will need to be drawn up between the two countries, and certain conditions may be included. Correspondence between Japan and Israel does take some time, although askonim have been assured that the process will be handled as expeditiously as possible. We can only pray and wait.
Perhaps most significant was the achievement of having Yaakov Yosef remain in the Chiba Detention Center as opposed to being transferred to a prison camp. The askonim explored every avenue possible to accomplish this. Firstly, they used the fact that Yaakov Yosef had been allowed to remain in Chiba during the appeal at the Tokyo High Court despite the fact that protocol dictated that he be transferred to the detention centre in Tokyo as a precedent. They argued that if the court agreed that conditions in the Tokyo detention centre would be too difficult for the defendant whilst awaiting trial, how much more so must they agree that he would not be able to tolerate conditions in a prison labor camp! Additionally, since Japanese law dictates that Yaakov Yosef need not be held in Japan at all but can be transferred to his own country to serve his sentence, why should he enter the six – month training program that all prisoners must undergo to prepare them for prison camp if he will not be remaining in Japan in the long run?
With much thanks to the Ribono Shel Olam, Yaakov Yosef was allowed to remain in the Chiba Detention Center, in the same room that he was in until now, where he has all his seforim and other items which are important to him. However, certain prison rules have been imposed upon him, making his stay much more difficult. Firstly, he is limited to only two visits per month, while previously he had been receiving visitors almost daily, whether family, askonim, individuals passing through the Far East on business, or Rabbi Edery, the Chabad shaliach to Tokyo who is certainly earning his Olam Haboh with his untiring dedication to the boys. These visits served to keep the boys in a positive state of mind and their spirits up so that they could endure. Askonim, were able to have Rabbi Edery listed as Yaakov Yosef’s religious chaplain so that he could visit him weekly in this capacity. This means that besides two visitors that he’s allowed every month, he can receive a weekly visit from Rabbi Edery as a Rabbi. Rabbi Edery can also visit in the capacity of a regular visitor, visiting twice every month, besides his weekly rights as a Rabbi.
Even worse is that Yaakov Yosef is no longer allowed to purchase or receive food such as bread, fresh fruit, and preserved fruits from the canteen. The prison rations are extremely meager as it is, and given Yaakov Yosef’s kashrus constraints he was not getting nearly enough food to survive. He became very weak and ill as a result, until lawyers, askonim and others were able to get through to the prison authorities the fact that while other prisoners might purchase luxury edibles such as chocolate, chips and biscuits in the canteen, Yaakov Yosef was using his canteen purchases as a means of survival. Although he did not receive permission to continue purchasing food, his rations were supplemented somewhat.
In a clear and unbelievable manifestation of Hashgocho Protis, the prison authorities did not force him to shave his facial hair as they do all prisoners; rather, they offered him the option of being shaved as they knew that his religion did not permit it. Regarding Yaakov Yosef’s tefillin – while until now he was able to use them as long as he desired, he is now given them for one hour a day. Although the authorities initially only wanted to allow one half hour per day, askonim were able to stretch it to a full hour and arranged that that hour be in the early morning so that he can daven Shacharis.
Although Yaakov Yosef was previously weak, his spirit is unbelievably strong. He has written several powerful letters that would put our own emunah and bitachon to shame.
As for Yoel (Zev) ben Mirel Risa Chava, he too is still sitting alone in his cell, awaiting his final verdict which is scheduled for August 29th. The weather in Japan is extremely hot and humid, much worse than what we are used to. Rabbi Nezri, who was there just two weeks ago, said that it is simply difficult to breathe due to the tremendous heat and humidity. Neither Yaakov Yosef or Yoel Zev have any sort of air conditioning, or even a fan, but in the meeting room where they meet with visitors there is air conditioning, and therefore everything is done to get them to the meeting rooms with visitors or lawyers as frequent as possible to give them relief and some enjoyment of relaxation. The short time spent in a small enclosed area outdoors that they allowed twice a week provide little or no relief.
What more must we say? Yaakov Yosef and Yoel Zev are still suffering and are by no way in vacation spirits yet! Please remember, that whilst you are planning your summer vacation, the bochurim jailed in Japan are still languishing in detention! Please don't go on vacation without taking their plight with you in your heart.
We must pour out our hearts in tefillah to Hakodosh Boruch Hu that Yaakov Yosef be transferred very quickly and that we should merit a positive verdict for Yoel Zev, thus sparing him from further suffering. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel and Yoel (Zev) ben Mirel Risa Chava, so that we may hear good news soon.
Join the tehillim teleconference on behalf of the boys, and spread the word to your family and friends.
Yaakov Yosef's appeal was denied by the High Court in Japan. Please read Yaakov Yosef's letter of chizuk from a ben Torah. Click on the image below to get a better resolution.
Hashem is putting Klal Yisrael to so many tests. May we realize that everything is from Hakadosh Baruch Hu, and that after putting our human efforts of teshuva, tefilah and tzedakah to the tasks, all that is left is for us is to continue to place our collective trust in Him and see the redemption unfold. May that be soon. Amen.
======================================================================
Below is a message from R' Meilich Bindinger and R' Aron Nezri:
Dear All,
Rosh Hashana 5772 is fast approaching, and Yakov Yosef still awaits his
redemption. 3.5 years of suffering, the pain is unbearable.
We ask the tzibur to write to Yakov Yosef some divrei chizuk, your feelings
and inspirations.
Yakov Yosef can read Loshon Hakodesh and Yiddish.
All letters should preferably be typed; otherwise, they do not reach Yakov
Yosef for as long as 3 weeks.
Typed letters we immediately dispatch by email to our agent in Tokyo, who
submits them to the prison, and Yakov Yosef usually receives them the
following day.
Letters should be sent to:
japanpidyon@gmail.com
or
faxed to: (++1) 718-534-0030.
Tizku L’mitzvos
Meilech Bindinger
Aron Nezri
Rosh Hashana 5772 is fast approaching, and Yakov Yosef still awaits his
redemption. 3.5 years of suffering, the pain is unbearable.
We ask the tzibur to write to Yakov Yosef some divrei chizuk, your feelings
and inspirations.
Yakov Yosef can read Loshon Hakodesh and Yiddish.
All letters should preferably be typed; otherwise, they do not reach Yakov
Yosef for as long as 3 weeks.
Typed letters we immediately dispatch by email to our agent in Tokyo, who
submits them to the prison, and Yakov Yosef usually receives them the
following day.
Letters should be sent to:
japanpidyon@gmail.com
or
faxed to: (++1) 718-534-0030.
Tizku L’mitzvos
Meilech Bindinger
Aron Nezri
~~~~~~~~~~~
Please continue to daven for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel.
For updates, visit www.japanpidyon.org
Dear All:
1) See report below from our leading attorney for Yoel Zev's case. The
prosecution b"h did not appeal. This proves that the acquittal was based on
powerful reasoning, giving little or no chance for the prosecution to
succeed in revoking the acquittal at the high court.
2) Please daven for Yakov Yosef be Reizel's quick transfer to Israel.
Feverish efforts to expedite the transfer procedure are ongoing - on several
fronts - may Ha-shem help us fast.
3) I request whoever can type a letter of chizuk to Yakov Yosef, in
Yiddish or Hebrew, should kindly do so without delay. A typed letter will be
allowed into the prison quicker than a written one. Send your letters to
bindinger@gmail.com. We will forward these immediately by email to our
representative in Chiba, Japan.
Thank you,
Meilech Bindinger
On behalf of Rabbi CYD Weis
And Aron Nezri
1) See report below from our leading attorney for Yoel Zev's case. The
prosecution b"h did not appeal. This proves that the acquittal was based on
powerful reasoning, giving little or no chance for the prosecution to
succeed in revoking the acquittal at the high court.
2) Please daven for Yakov Yosef be Reizel's quick transfer to Israel.
Feverish efforts to expedite the transfer procedure are ongoing - on several
fronts - may Ha-shem help us fast.
3) I request whoever can type a letter of chizuk to Yakov Yosef, in
Yiddish or Hebrew, should kindly do so without delay. A typed letter will be
allowed into the prison quicker than a written one. Send your letters to
bindinger@gmail.com. We will forward these immediately by email to our
representative in Chiba, Japan.
Thank you,
Meilech Bindinger
On behalf of Rabbi CYD Weis
And Aron Nezri
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The dramatic close to this chapter doesn’t bring an end to the Japan saga,
as Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel remains imprisoned. Efforts to maintain Yaakov
Yosef's status at the Chiba Detention Center until his transfer to Israel
have been productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one-third of the full sentence can be
deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their
discretion.
Yaakov Yosef could, therefore, with the help of Hashem, be released from
prison within a few months from now. Efforts are well underway towards
expediting his return home to Eretz Yisroel. All are asked to continue being
mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
Yakov Yosef showed great self-sacrifice when chosing to appeal the initial
verdict he received at the District Court. Most convictions in Japan are not
appealed at a higher court. One of the primary reasons why Yakov Yosef opted
to appeal – in consultation with daas torah - was to demonstrate
unequivocally his claim of innocence, thereby hoping to influence the
mindset of Yoel Zev’s judges when perceiving him as an accomplice. (Not
appealing is – in Japan – an indication of accepting guilt.)
If not for the protracted appeal procedure, Yakov Yosef would be now already
serving time in an Israeli prison.
During the preparations of the appeal trial, several new element of defense
surfaced, additional expert witnesses were brought to Japan, and further
emphasis was placed on the unethical blindeye being given to the polygraph
examination results.
The Judges of Yoel Zev agreed to adopt most of the new defence materials
that were introduced and accepted by the judges at Yakov Yosef’s appeal
trial.
We are grateful to Yakov Yosef’s altruism, at the cost of his own comfort.
May Ha-shem repay him with a ישועה בקרוב.
In deep gratitude of Yakov Yosef's mesirus nefesh, Yoel Zev paid a visit to
Yakov Yosef's family in Bnei Brak, today Wednesday. Yakov Yosef's family
prepared a festive l'chaim in honour of Yoel Zev's release. Yoel Zev thanked
Yakov Yosef's family for the tremendous הקרבה Yakov Yosef had shown to help
his friend.
-Meilech Bindinger
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MAZEL TOV !!!
Japan Update: At 21:50 Israeli time, Yoel Zev arrived at Ben Gurion airport
terminal 3, on flight KE957 via SEOUL.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
I can now confirm that Yoel Zev is b"h airborne.
We were nervous in the half hour prior to flight departure. Yoel Zev had not
arrived yet at the boarding gate. After some frantic high-level phone calls
it was confirmed to us that he is checked-in, albeit not yet to be seen.
Approximately 5 minutes before scheduled departure time, Yoel Zev arrived at
the aircraft and boarded alongside Aron Nezri who was agitatedly awaiting
his arrival.
Aron passed his cell phone to Yoel Zev. We conversed for a few brief
moments. I was so relieved that this moment had arrived and elated to hear
Yoel Zev's voice.
Some quotes from our conversation (translated from Yiddish):
Me: Yoel Zev, you got us real nervous, coming so late..., where
were you?
Yoel Zev: I arrived to the airport at 8am. I was held at the immigration
detention cell where I davened Shachris, and I was only taken a few minutes
ago to the flight, where I boarded together with Aron (Nezri).
Me: It's absolutely amazing to speak to you now, sitting on the
airplane heading home. With a 99.8% conviction rate in Japan, your acquittal
was against all odds. An absolute miracle. How do we thank enough?
Yoel Zev: (emotionally) Boruch Matir Asurim. In a time of yeshuas
H-ashem, the gates of heaven are wide open, It is now an auspicious time to
daven for my friend Yakov Yosef ben Reizel who remains in Japan and awaits
salvation.
Yoel Zev: I'm now about to eat the first certified kosher food since I
arrived in Japan three and a half years ago. Boruch Atah ... Shehakol
Niheyeh Bodvoroi.
Background: Please turn off all mechanical devices ...
I can also confirm receiving a photograph of Yoel Zev, aboard the home bound
flight, smiling contentedly, with a sefer on his armrest.
May we be zoche to always share besuros tovois.
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
בס"ד
Dear Yidden around the world;
חסדי ד' כי לא תמנו:
Monday 29th August:
After our report (29.08), that the Chiba District Court ruled in favour of
the defense, and handed down a full acquittal ב"ה for Yoel Zev נ"י, we were
still pensive and unsure whether the Prosecution Office would appeal the
‘non guilty’ verdict at the Tokyo High Court.
The prosecution office had 14 days in which they could do so.
The tzibur were asked to continue to be mispallel for Yoel Zev ben Mirel
Risa Chava, for his safe return home.
As explained previously, immediately after the court session was adjourned,
immigration officials took Yoel Zev into their custody on account of
overstaying his 90-day visa in 2008.
With abated breath, delicate efforts began to determine the stance of the
prosecution, and to convey a legal insistence to the Tokyo High Court to
abstain from accepting any plea attempt.
Likewise, the defence attorneys prepared a petition against detention, to be
immediately submitted to the High Court in the event that an appeal is
filed.
Based on the magnitude of the case and the large amount of compelling
evidence, we sincerely hope that the Prosecution Office will decide not to
appeal. The Prosecution Office tend to shy away from appealing a verdict
which they suspect would prove difficult to overturn. In Japan, losing an
appeal is deemed an embarrassment. Additionally, Judge Hadoko who handed
down the ‘non guilty’ verdict is one of Japans elite judges. This could mean
that it is too big a challenge to try to overturn his verdict. The High
prosecution office know him well, and would not try to slap him in the face
when there's a chance of losing.
Feverish Preparations
Tuesday 30th August:
8 am: An explanation stating the cause of Yoel Zev’s delayed exit from Japan
was prepared by the legal team, and presented to the Investigation Division
at the Immigration Office.
10 am: At the Immigration Office, officers at the investigation division
opened a file for the deportation of Yoel Zev and after a questioning
session, asked Yoel Zev to sign some documents.
During his detention, Yoel Zev has amassed a library of seforim and
clothing, sent to him by the askonim and his family. To avoid delays at the
airport due to excessive baggage, we removed the bulk of Yoel Zev’s
belongings from the immigration centre.
Yoel Zev נ"י has for the first time since 03 April 2008 held a telephone
conversation. We acquired several telephone cards allowing Yoel Zev to speak
freely to his family, rebbes, and friends.
Wednesday 31st August:
We understood from officers at the Immigration Office, that the
investigation phase of Yoel Zev’s deportation process was completed, and at
2 pm the report was submitted to the Decision Department. Yoel Zev was not
asked to sign any additional documents.
Thursday 1st September:
Defense attorneys contacted Decision Officers at the Immigration Centre to
ask them to furnish us with the necessary exit permit without delay.
Yoel Zev’s spirits are high and hopeful b”h.
Much red-tape is involved in the allocation of tickets, airlines consent to
carry a deportee, and appropriate travel route.
Our travel agency, based in USA, made provisional contingency plans, holding
seats on several flights to various destinations, on each day since Yoel
Zev’s acquittal, so that when the exit permit would be granted, the seats
would be immediately available.
Friday, 2nd September:
Mr Ozawa, a defence attorney, called the Immigration Office at 10am. The
decision officer told him that the decision is underway. Upon pressing for
swifter action, he was told “if you call in the afternoon my answer will be
the same!” Mr. Ozawa says this means they will not be rendering a decision
today, and they will probably give it on Monday coming.
Mr. Nakayama, a Japanese member of parliament who has befriended the
askonim, explained that since a new government is being established today,
many officials are absent due to the commotion, which in turn could be the
reason for the delay in receiving the exit permit.
Mr. Kuroda, a friend we have who is well acquainted with officials at the
Japanese Ministry of Justice, cautioned that the delay is perhaps due to the
Immigration Office having contacted the Prosecution Office to ask whether
they should release Yoel Zev.
Officers at the Immigration Office claim that there is nothing holding up
issuing the Exit Permit. They presented a chart of the procedure and showed
where they are up to now. They added that there would be no chance of
getting a decision today. Shabbos and Sunday the Immigration Office is
closed. It is hoped that on Monday they will have their decision, and send
it to the Deportation Department.
Upon the requests of MK Eli Yishai, representatives of the Israeli Embassy
held a meeting with Aron Nezri to discuss strategy, prior to their meeting
with investigation and decision officers at the Immigration Centre, and
tried to press for a Deportation Order to be issued today, Friday. However,
they explained to us that this would not be possible until Monday.
Meanwhile we have arranged backup seating available on outgoing flights on
Monday night and on Tuesday morning.
In Eretz Yisroel, the Beis Din of the Edoh Hachareidis issued a new
proclamation requesting klal yisroel to daven for the quick release of Yoel
Zev and quick transfer of Yakov Yosef.
In Japan there were ב"ה some positive indications. Yoel Zev’s passport and
some other personal belongings that were confiscated by the Prosecution
Office at the time of arrest were returned to him.
This is a good sign, but not necessarily an indication that the prosecutor
will not appeal. The defense attorneys advised that although the prosecutor
cannot hold on to an acquitted subjects personal belongings; nevertheless it
is still a positive sign. We remain cautious.
On another note, Japan appointed a new Justice Minister on Friday. He
announced that he would not sign any death penalties.
After consulting with leading poskim, Yoel Zev was instructed to sign any
release papers presented to him on Shabbos. Similarly, Yoel Zev was allowed
to travel on Shabbos if the need would arise.
Shabbos - Sunday, 3rd - 4th September:
A sholom zochor was held on Shabbos at the home of Chabad Shliach Rabbi
Binyomin Edery for the birth of his newborn son. The Bris Milah took place
on Sunday. The baby was named “Nissim Ariel”; Nissim in commemoration of
Yoel Zev’s sudden - and to many also unexpected - acquittal. A few guests
from Los Angeles had come for shabbos to take part in the bris.
On Sunday, Typhoon Talas swept through west Japan, this affecting many
inbound and outgoing flights.
Monday 5th September:
As on every day, Aron Nezri visited Yoel Zev at 9 am together with a defence
attorney, to clarify the status of the procedure and guide Yoel Zev further.
Relief!
At 10 am the deportation order was finally issued and presented to the
deportation department for execution.
New air tickets were purchased. Scheduling of deportation escorts were put
in place.
Tickets for accompanying father and askonim were now secured.
A frenzied but fulfilling day.
Tuesday 6th September:
Flight to Freedom אי"ה:
The long awaited day has finally arrived, 6th September 2011, Tuesday
morning in Japan, Yoel Zev will all being well be allowed to travel home.
Security personnel from the deportation division of the Immigration Centre
will escort Yoel Zev from the Tokyo Immigration Centre to the Narita
International Airport. At the airport, he will be detained in an immigration
cell until the boarding time of his flight out of Japan.
After all passengers have already boarded, Yoel Zev will be brought to the
door of the aircraft flanked by two officials from the Tokyo Immigration
Office.
Once Yoel Zev boards the aircraft he is a free man, and once airborne we’re
sure he will taste the freedom that we have all longed for.
May we all be zoche to חירות עולם with the coming of משיח בב"א.
Contrary to some rumours, no country seeks extradition of Yoel Zev.
Together with Yoel Zev on the flight will be, his father, Aron Nezri who has
carefully coordinated the immigration procedures, and a friend of the family
who has spent many months visiting the bochurim during the last three years.
Yoel Zev will be departing from Japan during the course of the morning and
is scheduled to arrive in Eretz Yisroel on Tuesday night.
We have exercised caution when selecting what kosher food Yoel Zev will eat
during his flight to freedom, after not having consumed a morsel of poultry
and meat for almost three and a half years.
Current Status of Yakov Yosef ben Reizel:
The dramatic close to this chapter doesn’t bring an end to the Japan saga.
Yakov Yosef remains imprisoned על אדמת נכר.
We have therefore planned no public celebration, eventhough the simcho and
Kiddush H-ashem would call for one, since Yakov Yosef is not yet home …
Efforts to retain Yakov Yosef's status at the Chiba detention centre until
his transfer to Israel were ב"ה productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one third of the full sentence can be
deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their
discretion.
According to this, Yakov Yosef could אי"ה be out of prison within a few
months from now.
Efforts are well underway towards expediting his return home to Eretz
Yisrael. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
In Conclusion:
On behalf of Dayan Chaim Yosef Dovid Weis of Antwerp, we have so far
dedicated three and half years to the defence efforts of the unfortunate
bochurim. We hope to soon pick up our lives from where we left off.
We are deeply grateful for the support and cooperation of:
* Attorney, Mr. Rex Beaber (Los Angeles),
* Dr. Yamamura (Osaka, Japan)
* Ex D.E.A. agent, Mr. Mike Levine (NJ, USA),
* Prof. Daniel Aldrich (West Lafayette, Indiana),
* Prof. G. Ben-Schachar (Jeruslaem),
* Prof. Sacha Stern (London),
* Rabbi M.D. Niederman (Williamsburg),
whom, amongst many others, provided expert live testimony and dissertations
to the court in defence of the bochurim, and played a major role in securing
Yoel Zev’s acquittal. An exhaustive list would be quite impossible. We are
indebted to so many.
We won’t easily forget the electrifying moment when the judges proclaimed in
Japanese “You are innocent” and the court appointed translator repeating to
Yoel Zev “אתה זכאי”.
May we all be זוכה בדין in the upcoming ימי הדין, and may we hear only
besuros toivois and simchos in our midst.
Aron Nezri, London - Currently in Tokyo, Japan
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
~~~~~~~
Please continue to daven for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel who awaits his transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Yidden around the world;
חסדי ד':
Bechasdei Shomayim, we and the defence attorneys are glad to report that the Chiba District Court ruled in favour of the defense, and handed down a full acquittal ב"ה for Yoel Zev נ"י.
Immediately upon hearing this good news, we exited the court room for a few moments, to convey the besuro tovah to the multitudes of Acheinu Bnei Yisroel who were waiting in suspense for the outcome.
Upon hearing the judges verdict we were choked with emotion and couldn't elaborate. We can now, after closing of the court session, provide more details of what transpired today, try and reflect on the chasodim geluim, and pray for further siyata d’shmaya.
Justice Prevails:
We congratulate the Japanese Judiciary for diligently seeking the truth, and carefully analysing the many diverse element of defense, - many of which are new concepts to the Japanese - and thereby succeeded in delivering the long awaited innocent verdict.
Prior to Court Session:
Ten minutes before the court session commenced, the leading defence attorney accompanied us to visit Yoel Zev at a meeting room under the court house. Through a glass pane we could communicate with Yoel Zev. It was difficult moments. We didn’t know what words can be said. Looming ahead was G-d forbid a possible guilty verdict of a 15 years prison sentence in addition to a penalty of ¥5,000,000.00 (equating to $65,000.00).
After having experienced the disappointment of the verdicts handed to the two other bochurim, Yossi and Yakov Yosef, it was challenging to find the right words of encouragement.
(Yossi, the only juvenile of the three, received a sentence of 5 years, which was what the prosecution had requested from the Judges. Yossi has since been transferred to Israel, where his sentence was commuted under conditions and supervision of the Israeli prison authority.
Yakov Yosef, the younger of the two adult bochurim, received a 6 year prison sentence from the 13 years demanded by the prosecution. He is pending transfer to Israel. The transfer procedure is well underway.)
What can one say to Yoel Zev moments before his verdict, after having faced the fact that his two friends were handed a guilty verdict?
We tried our best to prepare him for every eventuality, carefully using only positive quotes of Emunah and Bitachon, and hoping and praying for the best.
We were most relieved by Yoel Zev’s attitude. Yoel Zev said in his innocent manner: “I don’t know what the material judge will tell us today, but the celestial Judge, shofet kol ho’oretz, will certainly rule innocent”.
Court Session:
Upon the judges’ entry to the court room, and the customary Japanese bows, the Judge summoned Yoel Zev, using his first name 'Yoel' - uncommon in Japanese courts formalities - and asked him to stand at the pulpit directly in front of the judges.
The judge immediately announced – in Japanese - the verdict: “You are innocent”. Our personal translator, sitting alongside us, quickly told us in jubilation the courts verdict. The court appointed translator then translated to Yoel Zev “Atah Zakai”. Upon hearing these words, Yoel Zev’s father, ourselves, and other yidden with us, shed tears of jubilation. The relief is indescribable.
Basis of Verdict:
The judge then went on to expound his verdict in detail, on the basis of the defense material, explaining how he concluded his judgment, finding Yoel Zev to be ‘not guilty’.
(Visit www.japanpidyon.org for details.)
Closing of Session:
The presiding Judge then apologised – in the name of the Ministry of Justice – for the protracted trial procedure, mentioning that he was sorry that it had taken from April 2008 until August 2011 to deliver the innocent verdict.
At the court room today was present the father of Yoel Zev, whom after the judges left the court room, in an emotionally charged atmosphere, immediately recited the brocho one hears upon learning of good tidings, “Hatoiv vehametiv”.
This was followed by a quick succession of handshakes and congratulations between Yoel Zev, the defence attorneys, the askonim, and on looking well wishers.
Yoel Zev was then escorted from the court room flanked by two officials from the Tokyo Immigration Office.
Post Trial Procedures:
We accompanied the leading defense attorney to the Chiba Detention Center to try to meet with Yoel Zev and to guide him on the procedures to follow, however we were pleasantly surprised to learn that we could no longer obtain an audience with him at Chiba since he is immediately being transferred, with all his belongings (clothing and seforim) to the Tokyo Immigration detention centre.
In line with standing practice, immigration officials have taken Yoel Zev into their custody on account of overstaying his 90-day visa in 2008. An explanation to the immigration office stating the cause of Yoel Zev’s delayed exit from Japan was prepared by the legal team, and handed to Yoel Zev this morning (before the verdict), in hope of this eventuality. Attorneys are hopeful this matter will be rectified in an expeditious fashion and that he will be able to leave the country without further delay.
The prosecution office has 14 days in which they could to appeal at the Tokyo High Court the district court’s decision to release Yoel Zev.
The choshuve tzibur are asked to continue to be mispallel for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Risa Chava, for his safe return home.
The efforts to achieve today’s verdict were a culmination of so many kind hearted Yidden, across a broad spectrum, at the helm, Dayan Chid”o Weis of Antwerp, Hagras”h Wosner Shlita, Munkatcher Rebbe Shlita, HaRav Grossman of Midal Emek, Rabbi Y D Bleich of Kiev, Rabbi B Edery of Tokyo, and lhvbchlc”h Rabbi Aba Dunner z”l, among many other Rabonim, dignitaries, professors, lawyers, and activists from within the Jewish community. An exhaustive list would be appropriate but quite impossible. We are indebted to them all.
Current Status of Yakov Yosef ben Reizel:
Efforts to retain Yakov Yosef's status at the Chiba detention centre until his transfer to Israel were b”h productive.
According to Israeli protocol, one third of the full sentence can be deducted, and the remaining time can also be commuted as per their discretion.
According to this, Yakov Yosef could be out of prison within a few months from now.
Efforts are well underway towards expediting his return home to Eretz Yisrael. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Reizel.
May we hear only besuros toivois,
Aron Nezri, London
Meilech Bindinger, Antwerp
Currently in Tokyo, Japan
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bechasdai Hashem Yoel Zev was found innocent!! We must continue to daven that everything goes smoothly.
Please continue to daven for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel as he awaits a transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
Verdict for Yoel Zev to be announced!
The final verdict for Yoel Zev Ben Mirel Risa Chava is scheduled to be announced Monday, August 29th, 1:30 PM Tokyo time (Sunday night 12:30AM EST).
All are urged to daven and donate as a z'chus for the boys.
Please continue to daven for Yoel Zev ben Mirel Reesa Chava and Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel.
For a full update or to donate visit www.japanpidyon.org
Call 718-534-0030
~~~~~~~~~~~
As we reported at the time of the verdict, there is a prisoner transfer agreement in place between Japan and Israel, and thus, according to Japanese law, a prisoner legally need not be held even one day in Japan but can be transferred to his own country. The reality however, is far different. Transfers usually take a long time to actually take place, as was the case with Yossi, the youngest of the three boys who were arrested at Narita International Airport over three years ago.
With Yaakov Yosef, who is not a minor, time was of the essence as he was in the very real danger of being sent to a harsh prison labor camp where, aside from the great physical suffering he would have to endure, he would be unable to perform even basic mitzvos such as keeping Shabbos, wearing tefillin, etc. Askonim had no time to waste and immediately set to work setting the transfer process in motion, accomplishing in four weeks what usually takes several months’ time to put into place.
One of the askonim has returned from Japan two weeks ago where certain matters of bureaucracy and red tape were settled.
The initial step was for Yaakov Yosef to sign a waiver to any further appeal. Since Yaakov Yosef knew that once he signed this document he would officially be considered a prisoner of the State and would no longer be allowed visitors on a daily basis as he had been previously receiving, he waited until his father left a week after the trial to sign the document so that he would be able to see him as often as possible until his departure.
Complications also arose due to the fact that the appeal had taken place in the Tokyo district but the detainee was being held in the Chiba district. Thus, important documents needed to close the case were sent back and forth between the Tokyo High court, the Tokyo High Prosecutors Office, the Chiba District Prosecutor’s Office, and the detention centre. The lawyers and askonim were kept very busy applying pressure to any and all parties involved, and succeeded greatly in accelerating the process at a speed as yet unprecedented in any such cases. The argument was that due to the detainee being held in the Chiba Prefecture, it falls under the Chiba’s Prosecution Office’s jurisdiction. The Chiba Prosecutors Office claimed that the case was dealt with by the Tokyo High Court and was taken over by the Tokyo Prosecutors Office, and therefore they are responsible for the case. This case was very unusual, as all detainees attending trial in Tokyo are transferred to the Tokyo detention centre, but in this particular case, as mentioned in the past, a special request was made to keep Yakov Yosef at the detention centre in Chiba due to the special care that he gets there that he would not receive on Tokyo, and the high court judge gave a surprising ruling in Yakov Yosefs favor.
Another issue that arose was with the document that Yaakov Yosef needed to sign where he requests from the Japanese Ministry Of Justice his wish to be transferred to Israel. Yaakov Yosef’s biweekly medical checkup was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, the first day of Shavuos. During their medical examinations, the boys are allowed to make requests to the prison authorities in writing. As Yaakov Yosef knew he would be unable to write on Yom Tov, he requested that the examination be postponed. The authorities did not agree to this, and they presented to him the transfer request for signature on Yom Tov. An argument then ensued as to whether they would need to wait for the next medical exam two weeks later to have him sign the document, or whether they could come at any time to have him sign. Thankfully, he did not need to wait the two weeks and was able to sign immediately after Yom Tov. There was also disagreement as to where the bill for the fine levied on Yaakov Yosef was to be presented for payment, again having the Tokyo and Chiba Prosecution Offices throwing it at each other. At the end, it was determined that the Tokyo Prosecutors office will issue the bill and the lawyer would be allowed to pay on Yaakov Yosef’s behalf, which he did straight away.
At this time, documentary procedures both on the Japanese side and the Israeli side have been completed, and the review process is underway. Both sides need to review the documentation of the other country; i.e. the Japanese will want to know where in Israel the prisoner will be taken, at what point will he be allowed to request being released,etc. Then a contract will need to be drawn up between the two countries, and certain conditions may be included. Correspondence between Japan and Israel does take some time, although askonim have been assured that the process will be handled as expeditiously as possible. We can only pray and wait.
Perhaps most significant was the achievement of having Yaakov Yosef remain in the Chiba Detention Center as opposed to being transferred to a prison camp. The askonim explored every avenue possible to accomplish this. Firstly, they used the fact that Yaakov Yosef had been allowed to remain in Chiba during the appeal at the Tokyo High Court despite the fact that protocol dictated that he be transferred to the detention centre in Tokyo as a precedent. They argued that if the court agreed that conditions in the Tokyo detention centre would be too difficult for the defendant whilst awaiting trial, how much more so must they agree that he would not be able to tolerate conditions in a prison labor camp! Additionally, since Japanese law dictates that Yaakov Yosef need not be held in Japan at all but can be transferred to his own country to serve his sentence, why should he enter the six – month training program that all prisoners must undergo to prepare them for prison camp if he will not be remaining in Japan in the long run?
With much thanks to the Ribono Shel Olam, Yaakov Yosef was allowed to remain in the Chiba Detention Center, in the same room that he was in until now, where he has all his seforim and other items which are important to him. However, certain prison rules have been imposed upon him, making his stay much more difficult. Firstly, he is limited to only two visits per month, while previously he had been receiving visitors almost daily, whether family, askonim, individuals passing through the Far East on business, or Rabbi Edery, the Chabad shaliach to Tokyo who is certainly earning his Olam Haboh with his untiring dedication to the boys. These visits served to keep the boys in a positive state of mind and their spirits up so that they could endure. Askonim, were able to have Rabbi Edery listed as Yaakov Yosef’s religious chaplain so that he could visit him weekly in this capacity. This means that besides two visitors that he’s allowed every month, he can receive a weekly visit from Rabbi Edery as a Rabbi. Rabbi Edery can also visit in the capacity of a regular visitor, visiting twice every month, besides his weekly rights as a Rabbi.
Even worse is that Yaakov Yosef is no longer allowed to purchase or receive food such as bread, fresh fruit, and preserved fruits from the canteen. The prison rations are extremely meager as it is, and given Yaakov Yosef’s kashrus constraints he was not getting nearly enough food to survive. He became very weak and ill as a result, until lawyers, askonim and others were able to get through to the prison authorities the fact that while other prisoners might purchase luxury edibles such as chocolate, chips and biscuits in the canteen, Yaakov Yosef was using his canteen purchases as a means of survival. Although he did not receive permission to continue purchasing food, his rations were supplemented somewhat.
In a clear and unbelievable manifestation of Hashgocho Protis, the prison authorities did not force him to shave his facial hair as they do all prisoners; rather, they offered him the option of being shaved as they knew that his religion did not permit it. Regarding Yaakov Yosef’s tefillin – while until now he was able to use them as long as he desired, he is now given them for one hour a day. Although the authorities initially only wanted to allow one half hour per day, askonim were able to stretch it to a full hour and arranged that that hour be in the early morning so that he can daven Shacharis.
Although Yaakov Yosef was previously weak, his spirit is unbelievably strong. He has written several powerful letters that would put our own emunah and bitachon to shame.
As for Yoel (Zev) ben Mirel Risa Chava, he too is still sitting alone in his cell, awaiting his final verdict which is scheduled for August 29th. The weather in Japan is extremely hot and humid, much worse than what we are used to. Rabbi Nezri, who was there just two weeks ago, said that it is simply difficult to breathe due to the tremendous heat and humidity. Neither Yaakov Yosef or Yoel Zev have any sort of air conditioning, or even a fan, but in the meeting room where they meet with visitors there is air conditioning, and therefore everything is done to get them to the meeting rooms with visitors or lawyers as frequent as possible to give them relief and some enjoyment of relaxation. The short time spent in a small enclosed area outdoors that they allowed twice a week provide little or no relief.
What more must we say? Yaakov Yosef and Yoel Zev are still suffering and are by no way in vacation spirits yet! Please remember, that whilst you are planning your summer vacation, the bochurim jailed in Japan are still languishing in detention! Please don't go on vacation without taking their plight with you in your heart.
We must pour out our hearts in tefillah to Hakodosh Boruch Hu that Yaakov Yosef be transferred very quickly and that we should merit a positive verdict for Yoel Zev, thus sparing him from further suffering. Please continue to be mispallel for Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel and Yoel (Zev) ben Mirel Risa Chava, so that we may hear good news soon.
Join the tehillim teleconference on behalf of the boys, and spread the word to your family and friends.
THIS SUNDAY NIGHT, August 7, 9:00 pm EST
718-258-2008 option 9 selection 9
To donate: call 718-534-0030
or visit www.japanpidyon.org
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let Us Not Forget Our Brothers Who Sit Alone.
Join the massive tehillim teleconference on behalf of
Yoel Zev ben Mirel Risa Chava
whose verdict will be announced on August 29th
and
Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel
who awaits a transfer to Eretz Yisroel.
This Sunday night, August 7th, 9:00 p.m. EST
Divrei Hisorirus from R' Efraim Eliyahu Shapiro, shlita
Rav of North Miami Beach
My precious friends, please recognize and seize the myriad of life saving mitzvah opportunities Hashem in His unlimited kindness grants us throughout every single day. Do them with a full heart. Your life in this world may be saved because of them. Certainly, your life now and eternal life after this world will be enhanced immeasurably. None of us knows how much time we have left. This could be your last day. Time is life. We can never recapture it. Use it to the fullest. -- Michael J. Elman, M.D.
Hashem is putting Klal Yisrael to so many tests. May we realize that everything is from Hakadosh Baruch Hu, and that after putting our human efforts of teshuva, tefilah and tzedakah to the tasks, all that is left is for us is to continue to place our collective trust in Him and see the redemption unfold. May that be soon. Amen.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
The Japanese and the Jews, היפנים ויהודים
With Israel's stepping up toward helping the country of Japan which is fighting for dear life, and so much attention is being given to the people of Japan, I wonder if Hashem's reason for focusing on Japan is to enable us to understand the history of Japan, particularly in its relationship to the Jewish nation. My first article about the possible link between our two ancestries has made me wonder if it is indeed Hashem's goal to bring the Japanese to recognize Him as the G-d who brought their ancestry, the Israelites, to build their nation. This article written by, Arimasa Kubo, a Japanese Xian pastor, Bible teacher and non-fiction writer on science, culture and history, is the original source where my previous article was referencing.
The Japanese word, samurai, I learned from a Rabbi Geller, has its etymology in Hebrew, שומר אי, 'shomer ee', the guardian of the island. Other fascinating similarities between Japanese and Hebrew from Arimasa Kubo's article include:
This is part 1 of the video.
This is part 2 of the video. Caveat: It has references to Xianity; we can laugh at that part.
The following 3-part series offers additional information not found in the source article. Things which we don't know unless we have Jewish friends in Japan.
Part 1/1, note the Japanese word "Gion" to Hebrew "Zion"!
Part 2/2, the Shinto shrine has pictures depicting the Avos and Egypt
Part 3/3, Some people believe the Aron is hidden in Japan. The limestone caves and its water tunnels remind me of Ir David and other water tunnels in Israel.
The Mystery of the Jews in Japan, by an American
Next is a video about the Ainu people, claimed to be the original ancestors of Japan. Note their long beards -- don't they look more like Rabbis than Tibetans or Mongolians that the video claims? The local women they inter-married look Asian, but not the husbands.
The Japanese word, samurai, I learned from a Rabbi Geller, has its etymology in Hebrew, שומר אי, 'shomer ee', the guardian of the island. Other fascinating similarities between Japanese and Hebrew from Arimasa Kubo's article include:
We say "anta" to mean "you," which is the same in Hebrew. Kings in ancient Japan were called with the word "mikoto," which might come from a Hebrew word "malhuto" which means "his kingdom." We call the Emperor of Japan "mikado." This resembles the Hebrew word "migadol" which means the noble. The ancient Japanese word for an area leader is "agata-nushi;" "agata" is area, and "nushi" is a leader. In Hebrew, they are called "aguda""nasi."Instead of focusing on the negative predicaments upon which many other bloggers have made, trying to play G-d, linking Japan's involvement with Iran or holding captive our two Jewish boys as her cause of tragedies, I would like to see it differently. I think it is quite possible that Japan is chosen for its ancient history and to bring this to light to the Jewish people, that we share more than we differ. Here is a Japanese documentary that will be of interest to us all. Mr. Kubo is featured in these videos.
In ancient Japanese folk songs, there appear many words which we cannot understand as Japanese. Dr. Eiji Kawamorita says that many of them are Hebrew. A Japanese folk song in Kumamoto pref. is sung "Hallelujah, haliya, haliya, tohse, Yahweh, Yahweh, yoitonnah...." This also sounds like Hebrew.
I pray that all Japanese people may come back to believe in God of the Bible. Because He is also the Father of the Japanese nation.
This is part 1 of the video.
This is part 2 of the video. Caveat: It has references to Xianity; we can laugh at that part.
The following 3-part series offers additional information not found in the source article. Things which we don't know unless we have Jewish friends in Japan.
Part 1/1, note the Japanese word "Gion" to Hebrew "Zion"!
Part 2/2, the Shinto shrine has pictures depicting the Avos and Egypt
Part 3/3, Some people believe the Aron is hidden in Japan. The limestone caves and its water tunnels remind me of Ir David and other water tunnels in Israel.
The Mystery of the Jews in Japan, by an American
Next is a video about the Ainu people, claimed to be the original ancestors of Japan. Note their long beards -- don't they look more like Rabbis than Tibetans or Mongolians that the video claims? The local women they inter-married look Asian, but not the husbands.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Are the Japanese related to the Jews? האם היפנים הקשורים ליהודים?
I have always been fascinated that the name "Moriya" is also a place in Japan. Moriya is a city in Japan, northeast of Tokyo. Moriya is the name of the sacred mountain, הר המוריה, (Mount Moriya) that housed the two Temples (Bais HaMikdash) in Jerusalem, and will house the third and final Bais HaMikdash, may that day be soon.
A short search on Google, produces a fascinating history of the people of Japan and their religious practices. According to this article, that is devoted to locating the ten lost tribes of the ancient kingdom of Israel, the many similarities between the religious practices of the Japanese and Jews hint at the ancient Israelites having settled in Japan.
At Suwa-Taisha, the traditional festival called "Ontohsai" is held on April 15 every year (When the Japanese used the lunar calendar it was March-April). This festival illustrates the story of Isaac in chapter 22 of Genesis in the Bible - when Abraham was about to sacrifice his own son, Isaac. The "Ontohsai" festival, held since ancient days, is judged to be the most important festival of "Suwa-Taisha."
At the back of the shrine "Suwa-Taisha," there is a mountain called Mt. Moriya ("Moriya-san" in Japanese). The people from the Suwa area call the god of Mt. Moriya "Moriya no kami," which means, the "god of Moriya." This shrine is built to worship the "god of Moriya."
Today, this custom of the boy about to be sacrificed and then released, is no longer practiced, but we can still see the custom of the wooden pillar called "oniye-basira," which means, "sacrifice-pillar."
Apparently, no other country but Japan has a festival illustrating the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac. This tradition appears to provide strong evidence that the ancient Israelites came to ancient Japan.
Another similarity between the Japanese priests and Jews is the custom of wearing a "black box" on the their foreheads.
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| Japanese Religious Priests "Yamabushi" Put A Black Box on their Foreheads Just As Jews Put A Phylactery on their Foreheads. |
For additional similarities between Japanese religious practices, the garb of their priests, their ceremonial procession of crossing a river with their "shrine" and other customs, read the article here and here:
"Yamabushi" is a religious man in training unique to Japan. Today, they are thought to belong to Japanese Buddhism. However, Buddhism in China, Korea and India have no such custom. The custom of "yamabushi" existed in Japan before Buddhism was imported into Japan in the seventh century.
On the forehead of "Yamabushi," he puts a black small box called a "tokin", which is tied to his head with a black cord. He greatly resembles a Jew putting on a phylactery (black box) on his forehead with a black cord. The size of this black box "tokin" is almost the same as the Jewish phylactery, but its shape is round and flower-like.
Furthermore, the "yamabushi" use a big seashell as a horn. This is very similar to Jews blowing a shofar or ram's horn. The way it is blown and the sounds of the "yamabushi's" horn are very similar to those of a shofar. Because there are no sheep in Japan, the "yamabushi" had to use seashell horns instead of rams' horns.
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