Israeli Authorities Demolish Illegal Structures at Religious Site in Upper Galilee

On September 17, 2025, the Israeli Land Enforcement Authority conducted a demolition operation at the site of the Tomb of Honi the Circle-Drawer in Hatzor HaGlilit, removing illegal buildings. This enforcement action is part of a broader initiative to regulate, improve safety, and develop the site for the benefit of its visitors. The Tomb of Honi the Circle-Drawer is a religious and historical site attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Over the years, unauthorized structures were erected on the premises, alongside identified safety and infrastructure deficiencies.

Following lessons learned from the Mount Meron disaster, the Land Enforcement Authority has prioritized reducing hazards at sites with large crowds by taking preventive measures to avoid future tragedies. The demolition aligns with an approved development plan that includes preservation and redevelopment guidelines, as well as the removal of unauthorized and unsafe buildings. The enforcement efforts are coordinated with the National Center for the Development of Holy Places to ensure continued safe public access.

The Land Enforcement Authority emphasized its commitment to combating illegal construction, especially where public safety is at risk. It stated, "Where hundreds of thousands of people visit annually, there is no room to ignore building violations and safety hazards. We will continue to remove violations and hazards, restore planning order, and uphold the rule of law and public safety."