In normal years, the Priestly Blessing during Passover draws tens of thousands to the Western Wall plaza in Jerusalem – priests to bless, and the public to receive the blessing. This year, amid the war with Iran and Home Front Command restrictions, the ceremony will take place in a reduced format. Only a few dozen priests will participate, with no public attendance. To allow those who wish to take part, even virtually, the event will be broadcast live. The traditional pilgrimage throughout Passover will also not take place this year.
Why is the Western Wall plaza closed during Passover 2026?
The Western Wall Heritage Foundation announced special arrangements for the Passover holiday at the Western Wall this year. In light of the security situation, Home Front Command guidelines and restrictions on gatherings, and following recent incidents in Jerusalem in which missile fragments and interceptor debris fell in the Old City and the Jewish Quarter, access to the Western Wall plaza and the Temple Mount will not be allowed. This is intended to protect lives and ensure the safety of worshippers and visitors.
Special security measures will be enforced throughout Passover, and the public is urged to follow instructions and act responsibly. During all days of the holiday, access to the Western Wall will be completely closed to the general public. Old City gates, including Jaffa Gate and Dung Gate leading to the Wall, will be closed to both vehicles and pedestrians. Public transportation routes to the Western Wall will also not operate.
How will the Priestly Blessing take place this year in Jerusalem?
The Priestly Blessing ceremony will take place on April 5, 2026, in a limited format. Only 50 priests who registered in advance on the Foundation’s website on a first-come, first-served basis will participate. The schedule for the ceremony is as follows:
- Morning prayer – 08:30
- Priestly Blessing (morning) – 09:00
- Additional prayer (Musaf) – 10:00
- Priestly Blessing (Musaf) – 10:15
- Prayer for the safety of Israeli soldiers, security forces, and the people of Israel – 10:30
To allow broader participation, even if only virtually, the ceremony will be broadcast live on YouTube and on the Western Wall Heritage Foundation website.
