With tens of thousands expected to attend nightly prayers at the Western Wall during the penitential season, Jerusalem police have launched a large-scale operation. The plan includes major road closures around the Old City, strict limits on private car entry, and deployment of thousands of officers to manage the crowds and ensure public safety<\/p>\n
Starting Sunday, August 31, 2025, police will block Jaffa Gate, Ma\u2019ale HaShalom, Yitzhak Kariv and Ha\u2019Ofel every evening and night. Other major arteries, including King Solomon Street, Safra Square, Sultan Suleiman and Jericho Road, will be closed intermittently. These Jerusalem road closures are expected to create heavy traffic congestion for drivers heading to the Old City<\/p>\n
Police warn of severe traffic jams on the way to the Western Wall and in the narrow alleys of the Old City. To avoid delays, visitors are urged to use public transport to the Western Wall, including the \u201cPark and Ride\u201d lots of the light rail at Mount Scopus, Mount Herzl and Safra. Reinforced bus services are planned, but route changes are possible due to the swelling crowds<\/p>\n
Authorities stress that private vehicles will face major difficulties in accessing the Old City, with parking almost impossible. Public transport in Jerusalem, particularly the light rail and organized shuttles, is presented as the fastest and most reliable solution for those attending the Western Wall prayers<\/p>\n