IDF Opens Tourist Routes for Fall Holidays Amid Training Exercises

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced the partial opening of popular tourist routes along the western border for Israelis and tourists during the upcoming fall holidays. Starting Friday, September 11, Road 10 in the Paran Division area will be accessible to tourists during specific hours.

During Rosh Hashanah, on September 11, a section of Road 10 between Azuz and Har Harif will be open from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. On September 12 and 13, access will be permitted in the Mitzpor Bar-Lev area up to checkpoint 10/12, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

For Sukkot, the segment between Azuz and Har Harif will open on September 25, from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. From September 26 to October 3, tourists can use the road in the Mitzpor Bar-Lev area up to checkpoint 10/12, between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM.

The IDF stated that while training exercises will continue in southern and northern areas during the holidays, some training grounds in the south will remain closed to tourists. The military urged the public to avoid restricted zones to allow security forces to carry out their duties. Personal identification is required for entry, and advance coordination is not necessary.

This opening follows a previous decision by the IDF to allow visitors to a normally restricted border area with Jordan for four days as part of the "Dead Sea Pioneers" event, which features natural, historical, and cultural sites.