On Tuesday evening, the commander of Israel’s Home Front Command issued an order to close off the Meron area in anticipation of the annual Hillula of Rav Shimon bar Yochai, traditionally celebrated in Meron on Lag Ba’Omer.
The closure order became effective at 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday and will remain in place until 12:00 p.m. next Monday.
The Home Front Command emphasized that access to the Meron area is strictly forbidden and urged the public to comply with the restrictions. Entry to the closed area is only allowed with proper legal permits.
“Arriving in the closed area without prior coordination and approval endangers public safety and human life,” stated the IDF.
Earlier this month, the IDF announced the cancellation of the annual Hillula in Meron.
“In accordance with an assessment of the situation in the IDF and in coordination with the relevant bodies, it was decided to cancel the festivities on Meron, between the dates of May 24 and 27, 2024. This, in accordance with the powers stipulated in the Civil Defense Law,” the IDF announced.
Major General Rafi Milo, commander of the Home Front Command, expressed in a written opinion that “as part of the recent situational assessments, I was informed of the planning for the event in question, which is expected to be held between the dates of May 24 and 27, 2024, as part of the traditional Lag Ba’Omer events at the grave of the Rashbi in Meron.”
{Matzav.com Israel}