Record Number of Jewish Visitors Ascend Temple Mount During Sukkot Holiday

A record number of Jewish visitors ascended the Temple Mount during the Sukkot holiday, according to figures released by the "Be'adinu" organization. During the intermediate days of Sukkot (Chol HaMoed), 9,172 Jews visited the site. This represents a 22.7% increase compared to last year's Sukkot, when 7,474 individuals visited, and a 42.4% increase compared to Sukkot two years ago, which saw 6,442 visitors.

"Be'adinu" also reported that since the beginning of the Hebrew year 5727, a total of 12,776 Jews have ascended the Temple Mount. This figure is nearly equivalent to the entire month of Tishrei last year, which recorded 12,778 visitors.

The organization noted that prayers and singing took place on the mount during the holiday, with visitors bringing the Four Species. "Be'adinu" guides accompanied groups, including organized ascents led by Arnon Segal and Dr. Keidar, as well as community ascents from various settlements. Notable groups included approximately 180 residents from Har Bracha, and others from Yikir and Bat Ayin. A special ascent for children was held in memory of the late Amona Kugel, led by her father.

Among the notable visitors during the holiday week were Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Members of Knesset Amit Halevi, Tzvi Sukkot, and Moshe Feiglin. Rabbi Dvir Tal also raised the Israeli flag on the mount. "Be'adinu" expressed gratitude to the thousands of participants, calling it a "historic event" that strengthened Jewish presence at the holy site and a step towards "complete redemption."