Turkish Chief Rabbi Isak Haleva Dies at 85

Rabbi Isak Haleva, the chief rabbi of Turkey, has passed away at the age of 85, leaving a significant legacy within the Turkish Jewish community. Born in Istanbul in 1940, Haleva served as a spiritual leader for over two decades, appointed to the position in 2002. He was a proponent of interfaith dialogue and unity, emphasizing peace and love throughout his leadership. Haleva narrowly escaped a terror attack in 2003 that targeted synagogues in Istanbul, reflecting the challenges faced by the community. His contributions to education and religious leadership were recognized widely, and he was fluent in multiple languages, including Hebrew and Ladino. Condolences have poured in from various leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, marking the profound impact Haleva had on both the Jewish community and broader societal relations in Turkey.