Protests Expected to Cause Major Travel Disruptions Across Israel

Travelers flying from Ben Gurion Airport today, Thursday, are advised to prepare for significant traffic delays and congestion due to widespread protests planned across the country. Organizers have warned of potential blockades on major routes, including those leading to the airport, particularly in the Jerusalem and Gush Dan areas. The demonstrations are scheduled to begin around 4:00 PM and are motivated by recent arrests of yeshiva students and kollel scholars. Protest organizers have issued an unusual warning to travelers, urging them to arrive at the airport much earlier than usual due to anticipated road and possibly rail closures. Significant traffic jams are expected on Route 4, especially near Bnei Brak, Geha Junction, and Ganot Interchange, as well as on Routes 1 and 6, impacting travel between Jerusalem, Gush Dan, and the airport. Protests are also anticipated to disrupt traffic within Jerusalem, with potential blockades at the city entrance, the Chords Bridge area, Shari Israel Junction, and Bar Ilan Street. Disruptions to the Jerusalem light rail are also possible. In Gush Dan, major congestion is expected on Route 4 near Bnei Brak, Geha Junction, and Ganot Interchange, which are key access roads for Ben Gurion Airport. Travelers are strongly recommended to allow considerably more travel time than usual to reach the airport, especially those flying in the afternoon and evening, and to consider traveling by train if possible. The protests are specifically planned for Thursday, and travelers departing from Ben Gurion Airport today are urged to make necessary arrangements before leaving home.