09 Oct 2024 | 10:04 AM UTC
Israel: Yom Kippur to be observed nationwide Oct. 11-12
Israel to observe Yom Kippur nationwide Oct. 11-12. Increased security, business closures, and transport disruptions likely.
Israel will observe Yom Kippur nationwide beginning sundown Oct. 11 and continuing until sundown Oct. 12. Businesses, schools, and government services will cease normal operations for the duration of the holiday.
Tradition calls for prohibitions on driving during the holiday, which will prompt many Israelis to walk or ride bicycles on roadways. Taxis, rail services, and other modes of public transport will likely be unavailable. Transport disruptions may be less severe in Christian and Muslim quarters, though driving restrictions will probably still be enforced. Crowding is very likely at entrances to Jerusalem's Old City and downtown areas of Jerusalem.
Due to the current escalating tensions between Israel, Iran, and Lebanon, security forces will likely deploy increased security measures near synagogues for the duration of the holiday. Increased security deployments are also likely across Israel, especially near the 1967 border (Green Line) and other public venues. Associated transport and business disruptions are likely.
Confirm travel arrangements and business appointments. Limit nonessential vehicular travel during the holiday and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan meals ahead of time, as most restaurants will be closed during the fasting period. Note, in light of the ongoing regional conflict threat, consider avoiding nonessential travel to Israel until the situation stabilizes.
Yom Kippur is Judaism's Day of Atonement and is widely regarded as the holiest day in the Jewish tradition. It is one of the most heavily observed religious holidays in Israel, and observant Jewish people are expected to repent and ask forgiveness for sins committed over the previous year. Synagogue services continue for most of the day. In addition to abstaining from food and drink for the duration of the holiday, many people will refrain from talking on the phone and using the internet.
