The yartzheit of Rochel Emeinu, which begins on Wednesday evening, usually draws huge crowds to Kever Rochel but sadly, this year, the site will be closed to the public due to the security situation. The decision was made on the order of the IDF’s Home Front Command and Israel Police. However, the relatives of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza who wish to daven at Kever Rochel will be allowed access to the site. The decision was made on the initiative of Religious Affairs Minister Michoel Malchieli (Shas), along with the coordinator for the Captives and Missing, Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Gal Hirsch. The IDF’s Home Front Command and other security forces will secure the area during the tefillah. Dozens of affected families were interested in the initiative and reserved spaces at the tefillah. (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)