Israel, Palestine: Increased security and transport disruptions likely ahead of and during Passover celebrations, April 22-30

Authorities will likely heighten security in key areas of Israel and the Palestinian Territories before and during Passover holiday celebrations, which will begin the evening of April 22 and continue through the evening of April 30. Security forces will also likely increase patrols near popular tourist sites, public transport hubs, and other crowded areas before and during the holiday period. Roadblocks and checkpoints at the entrances to major cities and other heavily populated areas are likely in Israel.

As part of the elevated security posture, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will likely close all border crossings to the West Bank and Gaza Strip for Passover. For festivals and national holidays, the military routinely closes border crossings between Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Security will also likely be increased along the Green Line (the 1967 border with the West Bank). While exceptions may be made to allow passage for urgent medical cases or other humanitarian needs, freedom of movement to and from the Palestinian Territories will be extremely limited.

Israeli security forces will be on high alert across Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. Palestinians may clash with Israeli security forces at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. Clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the region are also possible. Israeli officials could also restrict access to the Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem during the holiday period.

Many businesses in Israel will close in observance of the holiday; banks and government offices will likely reduce hours of operation.