Israel, Palestine: Increased security and transport disruptions likely during Jerusalem Day celebrations May 9-10

Event

Authorities will tighten security measures throughout Jerusalem for Jerusalem Day (Yom Yerushalayim) celebrations; the holiday will begin the evening of May 9 and continue through the evening of May 10. However, an elevated security posture is likely throughout the city from May 6-13 due to various public activities and events planned for the week surrounding the holiday. Security forces will almost certainly increase patrols near popular tourist sites, public transport hubs, and other crowded areas during the holiday period. Roadblocks and checkpoints are also likely throughout Jerusalem.

Events on the holiday typically include several major rallies, marches, and other activities, particularly within the Old City. Tensions between Israelis and Palestinians often increase on Jerusalem Day, which marks the reunification of Jerusalem and the establishment of Israeli control over the Old City in June 1967 amid the Six-Day War. The annual Jerusalem Day Flag March, a right-wing parade through the Old City's Muslim Quarter that ends at the Western Wall, has previously been blamed for increased tensions between the groups. Clashes between marchers and Palestinian residents of the city are possible. Israeli officials could also restrict access to the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem during the holiday period.

Advice

Allow extra time for travel throughout Jerusalem during the holiday period. Ensure all travel and vehicle documents are in order. Heed the advice of authorities, including officers at security checkpoints. Avoid loitering near security checkpoints and main entrances to hotels, restaurants, or government buildings. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions before traveling. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints; even an accidental breach of the security cordon near a checkpoint may prompt a response from Israeli security forces.