Smotrich Marks Completion of Hebron Cave of the Patriarchs Renovations

The extensive roofing and renovation work at the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron concluded today, after months of construction. The project was initiated following a decision by Finance Minister and Minister of Defense, Bezalel Smotrich, to cancel existing arrangements with the Hebron municipality and transfer relevant authorities. The Civil Administration, alongside the Settlement Administration in the Ministry of Defense, managed the renovations through the Ministry of Defense's construction department.

Smotrich attended a ceremony marking the completion of the work, with Defense Minister Israel Katz sending his blessings. Local leaders from Hebron and Kiryat Arba, rabbis, and senior security officials were also present.

"The special place where we are this morning, the Cave of the Patriarchs, is actually the first sovereign inheritance in the generations of the people of Israel," Smotrich stated at the event. He added that the cave, purchased by Abraham, has become a symbol of Jewish sovereignty in their land for many, including himself. Smotrich described the completion as "a historic closing of a circle," expressing hope that by next Rosh Hashanah, Israelis will be able to pray there in large numbers and with dignity, under improved conditions.