The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has ordered a reduction in the annual commemoration of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai in the northern town of Meron, with this year’s event to be held in a symbolic format instead of the usual large-scale gatherings.
According to official directives, the decision comes amid security assessments pointing to heightened risks linked to tensions on the northern front with Hezbollah.
Reports indicate that the move is driven by concerns over potential heavy casualties if mass gatherings were allowed, given the fragility of the ceasefire with Lebanon, the site’s proximity to the border, and intermittent rocket fire in the area.
Sources also noted the difficulty of carrying out large-scale and rapid evacuations in the event of any Hezbollah shelling, prompting authorities to adopt a limited format aimed at minimising risks.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Home Front Command has approved new restrictions on gatherings in several Upper Galilee towns following a security assessment after an escalation in rocket attacks and drone launches from southern Lebanon towards northern Israel. Under the new measures, the size of gatherings has been restricted in frontline areas and nearby towns, including Meron, Bar Yochai, Or HaGanuz and Safsufa.
