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A doctor is allowed to drive to the hospital on Shabbos for an emergency to save the patient's life. No one really argues on that principle.

Now suppose someone works in a high level position in the CIA or the Pentagon. Is there a heter for that person to drive to his office on Shabbos if he's being called for a potential National Security threat?

Bochur613
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  • If someone's life is at stake, why would he not? – Double AA Apr 27 '16 at 01:20
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    Because perhaps we can make a distinction. The doctor is actively trying to save patient X. The CIA analyst may be called to asses a piece of intelligence pertaining to whether or not a mission should get a green light or not. Is that a case of saving a life where one can violate Shabbos – Bochur613 Apr 27 '16 at 02:22
  • "a potential National Security threat" is safek pikuach nefesh. If the case is not pikuach nefesh, then why would he be able to go in? – Double AA Apr 27 '16 at 02:57
  • @DoubleAA I thought safek pikuach nefesh also allows, if not requires you to violate Shabbos – SAH Apr 27 '16 at 03:15
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    @SAH Indeed it does! Save first, ask later. – Double AA Apr 27 '16 at 03:18
  • I know of someone whose rav told him to go in to the office (of a three letter agency) and stay there over Shabbos after September 11, 2001 (or similar cases). – sabbahillel Apr 27 '16 at 15:51

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