עברית
Faith
Is the city of Eilat considered part of Eretz Yisrael?
May one travel to Eilat for a trip?
Question
Shalom u'vrachah, honored rabbi.
I wanted to know whether Eilat is considered outside the Land of Israel, in which case it is forbidden to travel there just for a trip, or whether it is considered Eretz Yisrael, in which case it is permitted. Thank you very much.
Answer
Good day,
The city of Eilat is located outside the borders of Eretz Yisrael, and therefore it is forbidden to leave the country to Eilat for the sake of a trip. Only in cases in which there is permission to leave the country for outside of Israel is it permitted to travel to Eilat.
Sources: See Teshuvot V'Hanhagot, vol. 3 (siman 332, beginning with the words V'heneh mah), in the name of the Chazon Ish zt"l (and see there as well at the end of beginning with the words U'le'aniyut da'ati), Shevet HaLevi, vol. 5 (siman 173), Az Nidberu, vol. 14 (siman 43), and Ohr L'Tzion, vol. 3 (chapter 23, letter 12, beginning with the words U'le'inyan). See also Briti Shalom, vol. 4 (siman 4, note 6, beginning with the words U'mikan).
With blessings, Hillel Meirs
