The founding chairman of the emergency response and rescue organisation Zaka in Israel, Yehuda Meshi-Zahav, has handed back his Israel Prize following allegations of sexual abuse and assault, some involving minors, last week.
He has also stepped aside from his role in Zaka pending an investigation into the claims, which were published by the newspaper Ha’aretz.
He was awarded the prize earlier this month for his work over 30 years with the organisation, which is known especially for its help in identifying victims of terrorist attacks.
In a statement published on the website Yeshiva World News, he described the accusations against him as “unfounded” gossip and “the settling of scores against me”.
