Q&A: Survival Theft
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Survival Theft
Question
Hello Rabbi,
I’ve heard reports that the State of Israel, with the help of the Mossad, managed to outwit (or even steal from) other countries medical equipment and ventilators—equipment that might save lives in those countries. What is the Rabbi’s opinion on this from a halakhic and moral perspective? Is it right or not?
Answer
I don’t know whether there is any substance to these reports. As I understand it, the Mossad obtained aid and supplies from countries or sources that do not want their connection with us to become public. But if this involves stealing medical equipment or obtaining it unlawfully, that is very, very serious.
They say it מדובר in equipment from the Gulf states, and that’s why things are secret.