Western Wall Heritage Foundation Condemns Women of the Wall for Disruptive Prayer Protest

The Western Wall Heritage Foundation expressed strong disapproval of the Women of the Wall group after their prayer gathering at the Western Wall plaza during the Rosh Chodesh Av service. The foundation accused the group of turning the holy site into a protest venue, violating longstanding norms and court orders by bringing a Torah scroll to the plaza. Officials lamented the escalating tensions and called for an end to demonstrations, emphasizing that the Western Wall is not a place for shouting, whistles, or provocations that desecrate its sanctity.

The foundation highlighted the significance of Rosh Chodesh Av, which commemorates the death of Aaron the Priest, known as a lover and pursuer of peace, urging respect for the site's holiness in accordance with Jewish tradition. The Women of the Wall, who regularly pray at the site each month, have been a source of controversy due to their demands for equal prayer rights and ritual practices at the Western Wall.

The foundation's statement reflects ongoing friction between traditional religious authorities and feminist activists over the use and customs of the Western Wall, a site sacred to Judaism. The foundation insists on maintaining established customs and court rulings to preserve the site's sanctity and prevent further provocations.