Shas Council of Torah Sages Calls for Special Prayers Ahead of 17th of Tammuz Fast

The Council of Torah Sages of the Shas party issued a special call to the public ahead of the 17th of Tammuz fast and the days of Bein HaMetzarim, which begin tomorrow. They urged adding the prayer "Avinu Malkeinu" during the Shacharit and Mincha prayers and designated the fast day as a time for intense prayer and supplication to save the Torah world from harsh decrees.

The rabbis referenced the historic directive of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, zt"l, given during previous persecutions of the Torah community, such as after the Israeli Supreme Court annulled the Tal Law. They emphasized that throughout history, Torah scholars have faced oppression, and in those times, Rabbi Ovadia called for adding "Avinu Malkeinu" prayers to beseech divine mercy.

The letter concluded with an emotional appeal to the public to faithfully observe these instructions during the days of Bein HaMetzarim, praying for the cancellation of all harsh decrees. Additionally, the rabbis called for a gathering tomorrow at the Mincha prayer time of the fast for a "great and bitter outcry" over the disgrace and persecution of Torah learners.