18 Dec 2024 | 10:59 AM UTC
Israel, PT: Authorities will almost certainly increase security during Hanukkah Dec. 25-Jan. 2
Heightened security almost certain in Israel and Palestinian Territories Dec. 25-Jan. 2 amid Hanukkah celebrations.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security throughout Israel and the Palestinian Territories during the Hanukkah holiday, Dec. 25-Jan. 2. The current armed conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza will likely lead to heightened tensions and increase the risk of cross-border attacks during the holiday. While renewed ceasefire talks bring hope that a truce might be enacted by Hanukkah, the implementation of the deal remains uncertain. Authorities will likely remain vigilant and deploy additional security measures.
In Israel, security forces will likely establish roadblocks and checkpoints at the entrances to major cities and other heavily populated areas, causing significant traffic disruptions. In the West Bank, authorities will almost certainly restrict freedom of movement during the celebrations, as is standard practice for Israeli festivals and holidays. Israeli forces will likely close checkpoints outside Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin, Jericho, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah, and Tulkarm through at least Jan. 2. Palestinians may clash with Israeli security forces at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. Clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians are also possible in the territory. All crossings along the Israel-Gaza border will remain closed and under heavy surveillance.
Israeli officials could also restrict access to the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound in Jerusalem during the holiday period. Large groups of Jewish worshippers will likely visit the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif complex. The increased numbers could prompt Palestinian Muslim activists to protest in the area; clashes between protesters and police forces cannot be ruled out. Heightened security, transport, and commercial disruptions are likely in areas near the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif complex. Israeli officials may preemptively block or otherwise restrict access to the site if clashes appear imminent.
Most Israeli businesses will close for some or all of the days of Hanukkah. Historically, many people travel to visit family during the holiday period, increasing traffic on main roads.
Allow extra time for travel during the holiday period and prepare for business disruptions. 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, and government buildings. Do not attempt to bypass security checkpoints; even an accidental breach of the security cordon near a checkpoint may prompt Israeli security forces to respond aggressively. Seek updated information on security conditions and possible movement restrictions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem before traveling.
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, also known as the Feast of Dedication, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabees wrested control of the city from the Seleucid Empire.
