Israel: Increased security, transport disruptions likely in Tel Aviv for high-profile funeral March 20

Event

Authorities are tightening security and closing several roadways in Tel Aviv March 20 for a funeral procession for the leader of the Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox community, Chaim Kanievsky. The procession will commence at Kanievsky’s residence on Rashmbam Street 12:00 in the Bnei Brak area and conclude at the Ponevezh (Bnei Brak) community cemetery. Officials have closed multiple roadways, including Route 4 between Mishmar Hashiv’ah and Morasha exits, Route 5 east from Morasha, as well as several roads in Bnei Brak. Authorities have also set up checkpoints near the cemetery and will restrict attendance in the area. Local media indicates hundreds of thousands of people could join the procession and funeral. Approximately 3,000 security personnel have been deployed to monitor the funeral.

Officials will almost certainly maintain heightened security along the procession route through at least late March 20. Transport disruptions are likely along procession routes; increased traffic is probable on alternative routes. Skirmishes between police and residents are possible, especially near Ponevezh community cemetery, if officials strictly enforce attendance restrictions in the area.

Advice

Avoid Ponevezh community cemetery due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Exercise caution near the procession. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time on roadways, especially those near the Bnei Brak area.