Breaking Update
Holiest Site in the World to Jews Will Be Closed Over Passover Holiday Due to Wartime Security Concerns
Due to ongoing wartime security concerns and Iranian missile threats, the Western Wall will be closed to the public during Passover for the first time.
Jerusalem, 1 April, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Israel Police decided that, in light of the ongoing war with Iran and the security situation and Home Front Command guidelines, the general public will not be allowed to visit the Western Wall – the Kotel -during Passover. The traditional Priests’ Blessing traditionally held on the intermittent days of the holiday at the holy site will be held with a limited number of people and broadcast live on the Western Wall Heritage Foundation website.
Fragments from Iranian missiles shot down by Israel’s air defenses have fallen on the Old City of Jerusalem and there is a real threat of harm to people as Iran continues to use cluster bombs in its attacks.
“This decision is made at a time when every year hundreds of thousands of visitors and worshippers visit the city of Jerusalem and the Western Wall during the holiday, in memory of the pilgrimage and out of deep devotion to the holy place – however, this year, in light of the security circumstances, the public is required to act responsibly and obey the instructions of security officials,” said the police.
* During all days of Passover, the general public will not be allowed to access the Western Wall at all.
* The Jaffa Gate and the Dung Gate will be closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
* Public transportation lines to the Western Wall will not operate.
