For a first time, in response to the intervention of the B’tzedek human rights organization, Israel Prison Authority officials are permitting prisoners to sleep in a sukka. Prisoners in Massiyahu Prison Torah Shomer Shabbos Wing, which today includes former Shas minister, R’ Shlomo Benizri, will be permitted to sleep in the sukka. In the past, prisoners were only permitted to eat in the sukka.

According to an Etrog agency report, B’tzedek leader attorney Rav Mordechai Green sent a letter to senior officials in the prison authority, explaining the law demands permitting Freedom of Religion for prisoners, and complying with the mitzvah of sukka is indeed included in this category. Prisoners housed in the torah wing do daven with a minyan three times daily, have shiurim, and are served only mehadrin food.

Rav Green quoted Shulchan Aruch, and the halachos addressing one’s obligation to sleep in a sukka. He points out that he is not ignoring the security consideration and logistical difficulties that result but nevertheless, feels the frum prisoners should be permitted the option of sleeping in a sukka.

Green on Wednesday received a positive response from prison officials, who stated the prisoners will be permitted to sleep in a sukka in compliance with the accompanying regulations set forth by the prison service.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)