Israeli Authorities Demolish Illegal Structures at Historic Tomb of Honi the Circle-Drawer

Early Monday morning, the Israeli Land Enforcement Authority carried out a demolition operation at the Tomb of Honi the Circle-Drawer site in Hatzor HaGlilit. The enforcement action targeted illegal buildings constructed without permits within the historic site, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The demolition was conducted in coordination with the State Prosecution's Attorney Guidance Department and the Israeli Police's Metpa Unit, aiming to improve safety and prepare the site for regulated development.

The site had accumulated unauthorized structures over the years, along with safety and infrastructure deficiencies. This enforcement follows lessons learned from the Mount Meron disaster, emphasizing the reduction of hazards at crowded public sites. The demolition is part of a broader plan approved for the site's rehabilitation and development, which includes removing buildings that do not comply with the approved zoning and pose public safety risks.

The enforcement authority stressed its commitment to combating illegal construction, especially where public safety is at risk. They highlighted that with hundreds of thousands visiting annually, ignoring illegal building and safety hazards is unacceptable. The operation was coordinated with the National Center for the Development of Holy Sites to ensure continued safe public access and to uphold planning order and public safety.