The ultra-Orthodox public in Israel was informed on Thursday that during an emergency requiring the use of gas masks they would need to shave their beards. The haredi daily newspaper Yated Ne'eman reported that "active" gas masks (also known as ABC masks) with mouthpieces that are adaptable for those with beards were only being distributed to people with medical problems. According the IDF's Spokesperson's Office, "The active gas kits are intended initially for those with medical problems who meet the criteria, and elderly people over the age of 73 who cannot be protected otherwise." MK Israel Eichler (United Torah Judaism) told the Ynet news portal that the government is abandoning those with beards. "The persistent refusal to produce gas masks suitable for the bearded is further proof that the government does not tolerate a Jew with a beard," he told Ynet. Eichler said that he and other Knesset members approached the Finance Ministry, which allegedly refused to provide the budget for the masks suited to those with beards.
In gas attack, haredim will need to shave their beards
Haredi daily newspaper Yated Ne'eman reports that gas masks with mouthpieces that are adaptable for those with beards were only being distributed to people with medical problems • IDF says such masks intended first for sick and elderly over age 73.
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