The Ruling of the Chief Rabbi: It is not Permissible to Postpone the Prayers for Rain Due to the War

In recent days, many requests from soldiers and military personnel have reached the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi David Lau, asking whether it is appropriate to pray for rain during these days and to add the prayer "Grant dew and rain for a blessing" while the military is preparing for war and there is concern that the rain might disrupt operational activities.

In response, the Chief Rabbi stated that there should be no postponement of the prayer for rain because it appears that the conflict will be prolonged at this stage, and it does not seem appropriate to cancel the prayers for rain for an extended period.

Furthermore, the Chief Rabbi writes that in the prayer for rain, when we say "and grant dew and rain for a blessing," we are requesting from the Almighty to send us rains that will be for a blessing and not, God forbid, cause any hindrance or disruption to the soldiers of Israel in the battle.

In his letter, the Chief Rabbi concluded with a prayer for the well-being of the soldiers, asking the Almighty to protect them from all harm and danger, watch over them, and bring them back healthy and whole.