Record 69,000 Jews Ascend Temple Mount in One Year

The number of Jewish visitors to the Temple Mount reached a new record in the Hebrew year 5786 (2025-2026), with approximately 68,944 individuals ascending the holy site. This figure represents an increase of about 500 visitors compared to the previous year, according to data released by the "Byadenu for the Temple Mount" organization. The record was set despite significant access restrictions, as the site was open to Jewish visitors for only 220 days during the year. For 134 days, the Temple Mount was closed to Jews due to security concerns, Muslim holidays, and Shabbat. Notably, the site was completely closed to Jewish entry following Operation "Lion's Roar" and related security events.

The organization stated that without these prolonged closures and restrictions, the number of ascents would have been even higher. The busiest month for Jewish visitors was Tishrei, with 12,778 ascents. The single day with the highest visitor traffic was the Fast of Tisha B'Av, when 4,288 Jews ascended the site.

The data also revealed a surge in personal and family celebrations taking place at the Temple Mount. In 5786, 217 couples (160 grooms and 57 brides) celebrated their weddings there, a significant increase from the 124 grooms and 44 brides in the previous year. Additionally, 45 teenagers marked their coming-of-age ceremonies, including 36 bar mitzvahs and 9 bat mitzvahs.

During the year, police detained 383 individuals and arrested 36, totaling 419 detentions and arrests. Furthermore, 127 civilians were issued administrative and police restraining orders. "Byadenu" commented that the year 5786 "proved once again that the Israeli public votes with its feet and that the connection to the Temple Mount is deepening." The organization pledged to continue working towards removing restrictions and ensuring full and free access to the site.