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Darren Hollander

The Justification of Israel’s Strike on Iran on Shabbos

In the complex landscape of contemporary geopolitics, the recent Israeli military strike on Iranian targets during Shabbat has elicited diverse opinions, particularly among religious communities. From a traditional Jewish standpoint, there exists a compelling argument for the appropriateness of this action, grounded in our sacred texts and historical precedence.

At the heart of Jewish law is the principle of pikuach nefesh, the imperative to save a life. The Talmud teaches us, “To save a life, one may violate any of the commandments except for the three cardinal sins: idolatry, murder, and forbidden sexual relations” (Yoma 85b). The existential threat posed by Iran, a nation that has openly called for the destruction of Israel and has been engaged in developing nuclear capabilities, creates a situation where the protection of lives must take precedence over the observance of Shabbat.

In this context, the decision to act during Shabbat can be seen not merely as permissible but as a moral obligation. The safety and security of the Jewish people, especially in the State of Israel, necessitate decisive action when faced with imminent danger.

Throughout Jewish history, there have been instances where the urgency of a situation dictated a departure from standard practice. The Maccabees, for example, fought against the oppressive regime of the Greeks on Shabbat, prioritizing the defense of their people and their right to worship freely. This act of rebellion was not only justified but celebrated, serving as a reminder that the preservation of Jewish life and sovereignty sometimes demands bold and immediate responses.

The Bible itself is replete with examples that illustrate the tension between ritual observance and the imperative to protect life. In Exodus 31:14, the Torah commands, “You shall keep the Sabbath, for it is holy to you,” yet the same text emphasizes the importance of life. In Jeremiah 17:21, we see that the violation of Shabbat is permissible if it means safeguarding the people. The notion that our sacred duties may be suspended in the face of life-threatening danger resonates deeply within our tradition.

Moreover, the State of Israel is not just a geographical entity; it embodies the collective hopes and aspirations of the Jewish people worldwide. The survival of Israel is tied to the survival of Jewish identity itself. By striking Iran, Israel not only protects its citizens but also upholds the moral duty to ensure the continuation of Jewish life for future generations.

While the observance of Shabbat is a cornerstone of Jewish life, the sanctity of life supersedes all else in our tradition. The recent strike against Iran, conducted during Shabbat, can be viewed as a necessary action to protect the Jewish people from existential threats. As we reflect on our sacred texts and the teachings of our sages, we find a framework that supports this decisive act of defense, reinforcing the belief that, in times of crisis, the preservation of life and the safety of our nation must always take precedence. In doing so, we honor the spirit of our tradition while affirming our commitment to the survival and thriving of the Jewish people.

About the Author
The writer is the Group CEO of Global Energy, based in South Africa and the United States. He has a keen interest in global affairs and is a regular contributor to publications globally.