13.06.2025 14:10
The Chief Rabbis of Israel, Kalman Ber and David Yosef, issued an important warning to the public due to the increasing security threat. The rabbis stated that no communal religious events should be held in any way, both in open spaces and indoors, indirectly implying that gatherings in synagogues on the Sabbath should also be avoided.
The Chief Rabbis of Israel, Kalman Ber and David Yosef, issued an important warning to the public during these days of increased security threats. In their statement, they emphasized that all instructions given by the Home Front Command of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) must be strictly followed.
The statement highlighted that no mass gatherings should be held in either open or closed spaces. These remarks indirectly imply that gatherings in synagogues on the Sabbath should also be avoided.
In the morning hours, Israel launched an attack against Iran and, for security reasons, closed all educational institutions, meetings, and workplaces until 8:00 PM on Saturday, June 14. Only vital sectors will continue to operate.
The chief rabbis called on the public to pray more, particularly recommending the reading of Psalms 20, 21, and 131.
Meanwhile, the Council of Torah Scholars, the spiritual leaders of the Ultra-Orthodox Shas Party, invited the public to pray to God. The statement requested prayers for the security forces to successfully complete their missions and return home safely. It was also noted that everyone should reflect on themselves with sincere repentance.
The Council urged students receiving religious education to increase their Torah studies, stating that they believe these studies provide divine protection to Israel.
The statement included the following remarks:
"Everyone should strengthen their heart and family. God fights Israel's battles. God will not abandon His people and His heritage."
However, it was not clearly stated that people should refrain from going to synagogues.
Former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef had previously made similar statements, arguing that the study of Torah protects Israel from missile attacks. Yosef claims that these religious activities have prevented major disasters, especially in the attacks that have occurred since October 7.