Infrastructure Work During Rosh Hashanah Sparks Outrage, Minimal Political Response

Controversy erupted this week following footage of heavy construction equipment operating in a Haredi neighborhood in Kiryat Gat during the second day of Rosh Hashanah. The images, which showed work underway in the western part of the city, prompted public outcry.

In response to the reports, the Ministry of Construction and Housing stated that work on Saturdays and holidays is not permitted. The ministry has contacted "Arim" company, which is responsible for development work and contractor agreements in the area, to investigate how the holiday construction occurred. The ministry emphasized that clear directives prohibiting such work were included in the tender and communicated to the company.

"Arim" company has been instructed to examine the incident and take appropriate action based on the findings. The ministry pledged to ensure the matter is addressed and that the established guidelines are fully enforced to prevent recurrence.

Despite the public furor and the ministry's investigation, a notable silence has been observed among Haredi Knesset members, who are currently in the midst of an election campaign. Typically, such an event, involving construction in a Haredi neighborhood during a major Jewish holiday, would be expected to elicit strong reactions and demands for accountability from their political representatives. However, most Haredi lawmakers have not commented on the matter.

The sole Haredi MK to respond was Michael Malchieli of the Shas party. He described the situation as "very serious and regrettable" and urged all involved parties to act decisively to prevent future desecrations of the holiday.