Netanyahu's Yom Kippur Prayer Security Tunnel Project Halted

Security forces prepared extensively for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Yom Kippur prayer at the Yad Tamar synagogue in Jerusalem's Rehavia neighborhood. The preparations included the construction of a secure passage from his home on Gaza Street to the synagogue. According to Ynet, a sterile tunnel, approximately 15 to 20 meters long and equipped with air conditioning, was built to connect Netanyahu's residence at Gaza Street 35 with the synagogue on Ha'ari Street.

Work on the tunnel continued until shortly before Yom Kippur but was halted before completion. Ultimately, Netanyahu did not attend the synagogue service during the holiday, rendering the specially constructed passage unused. The security arrangements necessitated significant changes in the surrounding area, including the closure of Gaza Street to vehicles and the removal of cars from public parking.

Generators, fences, barriers, tents, and magnetometers were installed to screen attendees entering the synagogue. Dozens of workers were involved in the setup and security, utilizing adjacent courtyards to facilitate the tunnel's construction. Although a substantial portion of the tunnel was completed, work ceased just hours before Yom Kippur began.

The security preparations and construction incurred financial costs and caused distress to nearby residents due to the disruptions to public spaces and their homes. Netanyahu's residence on Gaza Street serves as the official Prime Minister's residence while the Balfour Street residence undergoes renovations, expected to conclude in 2027. Despite the elaborate security measures, Netanyahu's absence meant the tunnel remained unused.