Israel Police Finalize Sukkot Security, Traffic Plans for Jerusalem

Israel Police have completed extensive operational preparations for the upcoming Sukkot holiday, including the intermediate days (Chol Hamoed) and the traditional Priestly Blessing ceremonies. Hundreds of thousands of worshippers, visitors, and tourists are expected to visit Jerusalem, holy sites, and tourist attractions across the country during the week. Large police forces, Border Police officers, and volunteers will be deployed throughout the Old City, its alleys, entertainment areas, routes leading to the Western Wall, and public parks. This broad operational array, developed over recent weeks under the command of District Commander Superintendent Assaf Fried, includes overt and covert activities to ensure public safety, maintain order, and direct traffic.

The police are focusing on securing the hundreds of thousands expected to attend the Priestly Blessing ceremonies at the Western Wall Plaza, scheduled for Monday and Thursday during Chol Hamoed. Significant traffic changes will be implemented due to anticipated congestion. Starting Sunday, all routes leading to the Western Wall and the Old City, including Sultan Suleiman Street, Rockefeller Junction, Gethsemane Junction, Ofel Road, and Ma'ale HaShalom, will be closed to private vehicles. Only public transportation and local residents will be permitted access. Additionally, Yitzhak Kariv Street and Hativat Yerushalayim Street may be intermittently closed depending on traffic levels.

Public transportation to the Western Wall area will operate continuously throughout Chol Hamoed, and the public is strongly advised to use it and avoid arriving in private cars. Residents of the Jewish Quarter will be allowed entry to their homes via Jaffa Gate or Zion Gate. The police urge the public to be patient, follow officers' instructions, stay updated on traffic conditions via navigation apps, and report any unusual incidents to the emergency hotline 100.