כיכר השבת

Phones On, Prayers Limited: Home Front Issues Shabbat Guidelines Amid Rocket Threats

Ahead of Shabbat, Israel’s Home Front Command has issued special directives for Sabbath observers due to ongoing rocket threats. Religious radio stations including Kan Moreshet, Kol Chai, Kol Barama, and Channel 14 will operate in “silent broadcast” mode—broadcasting only emergency alerts and instructions, including clearance updates for safe exit from protected spaces. Citizens are strongly advised to leave cellphones on and charged to receive missile warning tones, even during Shabbat. Synagogue gatherings are permitted for up to 30 people in most areas, provided there is a nearby shelter. Each synagogue is also instructed to keep at least one cellphone active and a radio tuned to the emergency channel inside the protected space to monitor alerts. The guidelines aim to balance public safety with Shabbat observance, as Israel prepares for potential escalation over the weekend.