Thousands Gather at Western Wall on Tisha B'Av to Commemorate Temple Destruction

On Thursday, Tisha B'Av, hundreds of thousands of Israelis marked the day of the destruction of the Temple, with thousands visiting the Western Wall in Jerusalem from the evening through the morning. The Western Wall Heritage Foundation reported that since the start of the fast, thousands have come to mourn the Temple's destruction, recite the Book of Lamentations, and say kinnot near the site. Among the visitors were National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Economy Minister and former Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot. Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and other public figures were also present. The Foundation expects the influx of visitors to continue until the fast ends, reaching a peak then.

The police deployed hundreds of officers, Border Police fighters, and volunteers throughout Jerusalem, focusing on the Old City, the Western Wall, and main traffic routes to maintain public safety, order, and freedom of worship. District Commander Commissioner Avshalom Fled held a special situation assessment at the Western Wall. Overnight, police responded to several disturbances and clashes in the Old City's alleys, including attempts by suspects to disrupt the area's routine. Additionally, police arrested several suspects for damaging a cemetery near the Lions' Gate, with a total of 16 suspects taken into custody for further investigation.