Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013) was an influential Iraqi-born Sephardi Torah scholar, posek (legal decisor), and spiritual leader who profoundly influenced ultra-Orthodox Judaism and Israeli politics. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, to a poor family, he immigrated to British Mandate Palestine in 1929 at age nine. He quickly rose through the ranks of religious scholarship, studying at yeshivas in Jerusalem and becoming a leading authority on halakha (Jewish law) with a focus on Sephardi traditions. Yosef served as the Sephardi Chief Rabbi of Israel from 1973 to 1983 (Source B provides specific dates, while Source A mentions 'former Chief Sephardi Rabbi' without dates), during which he issued numerous responsa and rulings that addressed modern issues while preserving traditional practices. His scholarly output was vast, including over 50 volumes of halakhic writings such as Yabia Omer and Yalkut Yosef (compiled by his son).

In the political sphere, Yosef co-founded the Shas party in 1984 alongside Aryeh Deri (Source B provides the specific year and full name, while Source A mentions 'Deri' without first name), aiming to represent Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews who felt marginalized by the Ashkenazi-dominated religious establishment. As the party's spiritual leader until his death in 2013, his Friday sermons broadcast on radio and TV reached millions, blending religious guidance with political commentary that often stirred controversy. Yosef's influence extended to endorsements of political figures and parties, shaping ultra-Orthodox voting blocs. He was known for his charismatic oratory, sharp wit, and occasionally provocative statements on topics like secular Jews, non-Jews, and Israeli policies, which drew both adoration from followers and criticism from opponents.

Yosef's legacy endures through Shas's continued prominence, his family's involvement in religious and political life (several sons are rabbis), and his role in revitalizing Sephardi Judaism in Israel. He received numerous honors, including the Israel Prize in 1981 for Torah literature, but faced backlash for rulings perceived as discriminatory, such as comments on women's roles or gentile lives. Despite health issues in later years, including heart problems, he remained active until his death from a stroke in Jerusalem at age 93, mourned by hundreds of thousands at his funeral.