Israeli Religious Services Ministry Orders Preparation to Close Cave of the Patriarchs Amid Budget Freeze

The Israeli Ministry of Religious Services is facing a severe budget crisis ahead of the Jewish High Holidays, threatening the operation of the Cave of the Patriarchs and other holy sites. Following a freeze on budget transfers imposed by the Supreme Court, the ministry's Director-General, Yehuda Avidan, warned that there is currently no approved funding source to maintain these sites. In urgent letters sent to senior officials, Avidan instructed immediate preparations for a full closure of the Cave of the Patriarchs within 14 days, alongside halting activities of the National Center for the Development of Holy Places.

Avidan explained that the budget freeze stems from a temporary court order issued after a Finance Committee meeting approved budget reallocations for ongoing operations. Without these funds, the ministry cannot legally continue contracts or operations. He emphasized the ministry's responsibility for the site's upkeep but noted that its operating budget is not part of the state's core budget and relies entirely on coalition funds, which are now frozen.

The closure plan includes stopping all visitor and worshipper access, locking the site’s gates, terminating staff and contractor employment, canceling all events and ceremonies, and transferring security responsibilities to the Israel Defense Forces, police, and border police. The ministry also plans to reduce infrastructure use to prevent damage and will issue public notices to prevent unnecessary visits.

Avidan concluded by expressing regret over the dire situation but stressed that legal obligations require these measures until a budgetary solution is found. The ministry is awaiting a resolution by the end of August, after which the closure would take effect in early September if no funding is secured.