Following criticism that none of those lighting an Independence Day torch are haredim, Kikar Hashabbat revealed that Rabbanit Yemima Mizrachi, a leading religious figure, was offered to light a torch - but politely refused.
According the Kikar Hashabbat, Rabbanit Mizrachi had received permission from rabbis to take part in the torchlighting ceremony - but chose to turn down the offer.
Galei Zahal journalist Yanir Cozin reported that Rabbanit Mizrachi made the final list of torchlighters, and even received a phone call prior to being announced as one of those chosen for the honor.
However, Cozin added, in the end Rabbanit Mizrachi chose to forgo the honor, for reasons of modesty. He emphasized: "What I mean is, that Rabbanit Yemima Mizrachi decided to forgo the torchlighting for reasons of humility and personal modesty."
Kikar Hashabbat did not receive comment from Rabbanit Yemima Mizrachi.