IDF Fighters Exempt From Tisha B’Av Fast

Israel’s Chief Rabbinate has issued a halachic ruling exempting IDF fighters taking part in Operation Protective Edge from fasting during Tisha B’Av.

Ynet reports that the ruling, signed by Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi Rav David Lau and Chief Sephardic Rabbi Rav Yitzchok Yosef, forbids IDF soldiers operating in Gaza to fast this Tuesday.

Rav Yosef explained that “it’s simple and clear that soldiers who are in the midst of fighting are exempt from fasting.” He clarified that “even if they want to, they are not allowed to fast and must eat as a mitzvah.”

{Matzav.com Israel News Bureau}