Due to heightened security concerns, access to the Kosel will be closed to the general public throughout Pesach, with the traditional Birchas Kohanim ceremony limited to a small group and broadcast live for viewers.

Amid Operation Shaagat HaAri and ongoing tensions in Yerushalayim, the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, Israel Police, and the Yerushalayim Municipality announced a significantly scaled-down and unusual arrangement for the Yom Tov period. The decision follows recent security incidents, including falling missile debris in the Old City and the Jewish Quarter.

In accordance with Home Front Command directives and restrictions on large gatherings, officials confirmed that the public will not be permitted to visit the Kosel at all during the days of Pesach. Shaar Yaffo and Shaar Ha’ashpah will be closed to both vehicles and pedestrians, and public transportation routes to the area will be suspended. Security officials stressed that these steps are necessary to protect lives.

The annual Birkas Kohanim, which typically draws massive crowds, will take place this year with only 50 kohanim, all of whom must register in advance. The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, the 18th of Nissan 5786, April 5, 2026, during the morning hours, and will be made available to the public via live broadcast.

The event will be streamed live, allowing viewers to participate remotely and experience the tefillos and brachos in keeping with longstanding tradition. Organizers expressed hope that the war will conclude before the Yom Tov, enabling a return to the customary aliyah l’regel.

The schedule for the tefillos is as follows:

• Shacharis – 08:30
• Birchas Kohanim (Shacharis) – 09:00
• Mussaf – 10:00
• Birchas Kohanim (Mussaf) – 10:15
• Tefillah for the safety of IDF soldiers, security forces, and all of Klal Yisroel – 10:30

{Matzav.com}