Israel, PT: Authorities likely to increase security during Hanukkah Dec. 18-26

Event

Authorities will almost certainly increase security throughout Israel and the Palestinian Territories during the Hanukkah holiday, Dec. 18-26. 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 Dec. 26. 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. Authorities will almost certainly close all crossings along the Israel-Gaza border.

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; rival groups could clash with each other or the police. 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.

Context

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.

Advice

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.