Bnei Brak Admits Closing Bridge on Shabbat Amid Tensions

The Bnei Brak municipality has confirmed its decision to close the Rabbi Moshe Yehuda Leib bridge on Shabbat, a move intended to preserve the religious character of the mixed-population "Soferim" neighborhood. The municipality stated that the "overwhelming majority" of residents are Sabbath observers and that the closure, approved by the urban traffic committee, aims to maintain the neighborhood's sanctity during Jewish holidays and the Sabbath. An alternative entrance and exit remain open via the Design Center complex.

The municipality criticized unspecified "elements" for attempting to "fan the flames" and create provocations, citing incidents of violence and dangerous driving in the neighborhood on previous Sabbaths. They emphasized that the closure is meant to ensure public safety and prevent the neighborhood from becoming a dangerous zone.

This confirmation follows initial denials by the municipality regarding the placement of shipping containers that blocked the road leading to the neighborhood. The driver of the truck that delivered the containers was questioned by police. The municipality, however, placed blame on non-Sabbath observers for allegedly disrespecting existing arrangements and violating municipal law.

Police initially stated that the municipality had not officially passed a resolution to close the road according to municipal bylaws. However, the municipality's statement insisted on adherence to municipal law and respect for fellow residents. This incident is part of a pattern of disruptions, with previous attempts to block access to the neighborhood involving fences and, more recently, large containers placed on the bridge shortly before Shabbat's onset, causing significant traffic disruptions and resident anger.

Sources within the police expressed concern over the "act of thuggery and irresponsibility" that infringed on residents' freedom of movement, noting that the obstruction was promptly removed. However, other police sources suggested that secular residents also engage in provocative behavior, such as speeding, and have alternative routes. Yaakov Vider, chairman of the opposition in the Bnei Brak City Council, suggested that certain factions within the municipality and "neo-Marxist" groups have an interest in escalating tensions over Shabbat observance, potentially to distract from other issues like the city's economic situation and sanitation problems. Vider also confirmed that the municipality did not follow proper procedures for closing the street.