JERUSALEM (VINnews) — An inspector arrived  on Tuesday at the Ponevezh Yeshiva Letze’irim, located on Rabbi Meltzer Street in Bnei Brak, carrying a closure order for the yeshiva, which has continued operating during the war. The yeshiva is expected to appeal the decision.

The order states: “By virtue of my authority under Section 35(a) of the Unique Cultural Educational Institutions Law (2008), I hereby order the closure of the Ponevezh Yeshiva school located at 5 Rabbi Meltzer Street, Bnei Brak, which is owned by the Ponevezh Yeshiva.”

It continues: “On February 28, 2026, the Israeli Ministry of Defense declared a special emergency situation on the home front, and the declaration came into effect that same day. Accordingly, defensive guidelines were issued to all citizens of the Israel by Israel Home Front Command, which include a ban on gatherings throughout the country, as well as an explicit prohibition on holding educational activities.”

The order further states: “Failure to comply with the above instructions constitutes a real risk to the safety and security of students and staff at the educational institution. Operating an educational institution during wartime in violation of the Civil Defense Law (1951) and contrary to the guidelines is prohibited.”

“On March 5, 2026, an inspection was conducted by representatives of the Israeli Ministry of Education enforcement division, and it was found that the institution was operating in violation of the guidelines, thereby endangering the safety and security of students and staff.”

The order concludes: “The closure order will take effect upon delivery. This decision was issued in Jerusalem. An administrative petition against this decision may be filed with the Jerusalem District Court sitting as an Administrative Court.”

“The closure order will remain in force until it is canceled by the Director General or by the court.”

Officials at the yeshiva claim that religious institutions are being singled out, arguing that shopping malls remain open as usual while yeshivas are receiving closure orders.