A senior Israeli Home Front Command official warned Tuesday that traditional large gatherings during Pesach, including tishen, may not be permitted if the current security situation continues, as concerns grow over a potential escalation from Hezbollah.

Col. Yehonatan Raz, commander of the Ganim district in the Home Front Command, issued a clear message to residents in central Israel, stressing the need for heightened vigilance.

“The war is not over. We are striking our enemies with chasdei Shamayim, but we must remain alert. As part of the threat, we are likely to face significant rocket fire from Lebanon, and therefore we have instructed local authorities that tonight requires greater caution than usual,” he said.

While attempting to reassure the public, Raz emphasized the importance of preparedness and public cooperation.

“Although the enemy’s capabilities toward central Israel are more limited, it is still important to be prepared. We will do everything possible to respond quickly and handle any incident, but the public must be familiar with the guidelines and follow them,” he said in an interview with Yaakov Grodka on Kol Barama.

Raz also revealed a striking detail about the situation in Bnei Brak, noting that many residents may be unaware of the extent of the danger.

“The public in Bnei Brak may not realize this, but dozens of explosive fragments from missile warheads have already fallen within the city. The great miracle we saw on Rechov Yerushalayim, where an entire family was saved by entering a protected space, proves that the discipline of the tzibbur chareidi saves lives,” he said.

Looking ahead to Pesach, and in light of fears of further escalation on the northern front in addition to the ongoing war with Iran, Raz made clear that the Home Front Command will not take unnecessary risks.

“We are in close contact with the city leadership, as well as with the courts and chassidic communities. If we are placed under ‘Level 3’ restrictions, we will not be able to allow large gatherings and tishen as we have known them. We are working with planning teams to find alternative solutions, similar to what was done during the coronavirus period,” he said.

Raz also praised the preparedness of the Bnei Brak municipality, highlighting significant investments made in recent years.

“The Bnei Brak municipality has invested enormous resources in technology and training since the previous operation. We are prepared for any scenario, including the possibility of increased Hezbollah attacks. Residents need to exercise greater caution tonight than ever, and we will do everything to protect them,” he said.

{Matzav.com}