Israeli Police Prepare for Tens of Thousands at Tomb of the Patriarchs

The Israeli Police's Judea and Samaria district has finalized its preparations for the "Yemei HaMachpela" (Days of the Patriarchs) events, scheduled to take place during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday at the Tomb of the Patriarchs and the Jewish settlement in Hebron. Tens of thousands of Israelis are expected to visit the site from Monday, September 28th, to Wednesday, September 30th.

District Commander Superintendent Moshe Finchi approved the operational plan, which will involve police officers, Border Police, and IDF forces working together to maintain security and order. Their duties will include managing traffic and directing visitors and parking.

Special transportation arrangements are in place. On Monday and Tuesday, a dedicated bus line (number 201) operated by "Electra Afikim" will run directly from Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem to the Tomb of the Patriarchs. Service from Jerusalem to Hebron will operate between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM, and return service between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM, contingent on bus capacity. Bus lines 381 and 383 will be canceled during these hours.

In Kiryat Arba, a free shuttle service (line 21) will operate to the Tomb of the Patriarchs. On Monday, this service will run from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Tuesday, it will begin earlier at 5:00 AM to accommodate the early morning "Vatikin" prayer and continue until 9:00 PM. On Wednesday, public transportation will operate on an enhanced regular schedule.

Visitors arriving by private vehicle will be directed to parking lots in Kiryat Arba, with shuttle services available to the Tomb. Only residents of the Jewish settlement in Hebron will be permitted to drive directly to the Tomb, requiring identification. Police emphasize that parking is only allowed in designated areas, and illegally parked vehicles will be towed. Drivers are urged to exercise caution due to increased pedestrian traffic and to stay updated on traffic conditions.