{
  "id": 9966609,
  "title": "Sukkot 2026: Faith and prayer can protect us, but Israel still needs a strong IDF - opinion",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/sukkot-2026-faith-and-prayer-can-protect-us-but-israel-still-needs-a",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-26T11:24:26.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-909530"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the Sukkot holidays approach, the debate surrounding Israel's defense forces and the role of faith continues to divide the nation. The latest crisis stems from a controversial film, NAZA, which has sparked outrage among global Jew-haters due to its portrayal of Israel and its citizens. Amidst the swirling rumors and conspiracy theories, questions remain about the actions taken during the Oct. 7 massacre and the ongoing search for an independent investigation.\n\nIsraeli elections, already a contentious issue, further polarize the public, leaving many questioning who should serve in the military and for how long. From a religious standpoint, the question of who provides Israel's protection – the IDF or God – remains a point of contention. The Talmud offers two contrasting perspectives on this matter, with Rabbi Eliezer emphasizing the need for physical protection in the form of a sukkah, while Rabbi Akiva argues for the miraculous divine protection provided during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land.\n\nRegardless of one's stance, the Sukkot holiday serves as a reminder of the balance between spiritual and physical security. The festival mandates the building of a temporary shelter, symbolizing reliance on both human and divine protection. This duality is exemplified by the heroes who successfully navigate these two worlds, integrating Torah study with military service. Notable figures such as David Ben-Gurion and Yigal Yadin exemplify this unique ability to excel in both faith and military duty.\n\nIn a rapidly changing world, it is essential to recognize those who embody the virtues of both faith and courage. These individuals serve as role models, reminding us that security is not solely the responsibility of any single entity, but rather a shared effort between the IDF and God. As we celebrate Sukkot, let us remember these unsung heroes and the importance of upholding the values of both our religious and national identities.",
  "summary": "Even as our heads spin from a dizzying array of consecutive holidays, the parade of crises focusing on the IDF marches on and on.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 10,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Gulf News",
        "title": "Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey reaffirm joint defence pact under Mecca agreement",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/saudi-arabia-pakistan-and-turkey-reaffirm-joint-defence-pact-under",
        "published": "2026-09-26T02:54:30.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Times of India",
        "title": "Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia? Pakistan's role under lens; pact without an impact",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/houthi-strikes-on-saudi-arabia-pakistans-role-under-lens-pact-without",
        "published": "2026-09-26T05:12:48.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Ajel English",
        "title": "Gold prices steady in Saudi Arabia on Saturday across all carats",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/gold-prices-steady-in-saudi-arabia-on-saturday-across-all-carats",
        "published": "2026-09-26T05:48:59.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Daily Times",
        "title": "Saudi Arabia keeps nuclear weapons option open, report says",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/saudi-arabia-keeps-nuclear-weapons-option-open-report-says",
        "published": "2026-09-26T06:35:34.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Jerusalem Post",
        "title": "Saudi Arabia’s security needs expose limits of diplomacy, give Israel an opportunity - analysis",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/saudi-arabias-security-needs-expose-limits-of-diplomacy-give-israel",
        "published": "2026-09-26T06:48:48.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Hindustan Times - World News",
        "title": "Pakistan, Turkey reaffirm Mecca commitment as Houthis renew attacks on Saudi Arabia",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/pakistan-turkey-reaffirm-mecca-commitment-as-houthis-renew-attacks-on",
        "published": "2026-09-26T06:53:20.000Z"
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        "outlet": "Haaretz",
        "title": "Report: Saudi Arabia mulls developing nuclear weapon, U.S. officials say",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/report-saudi-arabia-mulls-developing-nuclear-weapon-u-s-officials-say",
        "published": "2026-09-26T09:51:13.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Saudi Gazette",
        "title": "Saudi Arabia intercepts Houthi drones, ballistic missile targeting Riyadh, Khamis Mushait",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/saudi-arabia-intercepts-houthi-drones-ballistic-missile-targeting",
        "published": "2026-09-26T12:14:48.000Z"
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      {
        "outlet": "Le Monde English",
        "title": "France sending military resources to Saudi Arabia brings discreet defense ties into spotlight",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/26/france-sending-military-resources-to-saudi-arabia-brings-discreet",
        "published": "2026-09-26T14:00:50.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}